Pop Punk Bangers for Every Mood Imaginable
Pop punk has long been a medicine for the soul. Unabashedly broadcasting anti-establishment undertones and angst-fuelled beats, the younger cousin of rock remains unrivalled in its ability to celebrate individuality and inspire self-expression. Looking to spice up your next jam session with your high school band that's perpetually "on the verge of a big break"? Rock back to the ‘90s with Blink-182. Mum won't let you out of the house wearing that Hot Topic tee smattered with "satanic undertones"? Why hello, My Chemical Romance. Come home battered by the boss after a project that's "not up to company standards"? Slap some Wheatus on there!
As much as these throwbacks tug at our pitch black heartstrings, though, the genre has many new bands ready to take on the mantel of their predecessors and knock the socks right out of those Converse high-tops. Today, “The Scene” is bursting with young blood affectionately giving life the ol’ finger. Make space for a slew of fresh Spotify playlists—from impulsive bouts of wanderlust to lonely nights at home, I’ve got your back.
Born and bred in the city, Stand Atlantic holds a special place in the hearts of all emo Sydneysiders. Like any good pop punk outfit, the band’s vibrant discography includes many songs for when you’re down in the dumps. Think of the old adage, “It’s okay not to be okay.” It's a cliche for a reason. In “Lavender Bones”, we are plunged into a journey of acceptance, of diving headfirst into uncharted waters instead of trying (and failing) to swim against the current. Bopping along to earnest power chords that thrum steadily towards an opening chorus, all your worries can’t help but seem a little less daunting. Leave tomorrow’s problems for tomorrow’s you—right now, just learn to ride the waves.
Me Against the World
"Lowlife" by Neck Deep
My dream world is Alice and me, my life is one big jamboree.
Calling all underdogs: this one’s an anthem for you. In true pop punk fashion, “Lowlife” is not so much a desperate cry for help than it is a cheeky salute to one’s uniqueness. Languid and whimsical, this track pays tribute to those who constantly feel a part of yet apart from the world around them. After all, what better way is there to proclaim your love for the carefree life than, “I’m drinking coffee on a trampoline”?
I Call Shotgun
"Pretty Little Distance" by As It Is
Ain’t life swell from a pretty little distance? I don't wanna leave, I don't wanna stay.
“Pretty Little Distance” is the ultimate travelling essential. Whether you’re on the wheel, riding shotgun or chilling in the backseat, this banger by As It Is brings the whole car together as you belt out its catchy rhymes whilst cruising along an endless road. Lead-singer Patty Walters revels in an oh-so-sweet refuge from the dreadful mundanity of everyday life. It’s a shoulder shrug dismissing the pain of responsibilities, a brave venture into fantasy, and a cathartic submission to the great escape.
Euphoria
"Forever Stuck in Our Youth" by Set It Off
So here I stare at an empty bottle full of confidence.
The men of Set It Off are heralded as the kings of all things edgy. On-the-nose lyrics bounce along to an epic beat in this song jam-packed with youthful vigour. “Forever Stuck in Our Youth” is an auditory time travel to a state of mind where only good times and good vibes exist. Raise your glass to all those parties that ended in tearful reminiscence; those spontaneous road trips where you found yourselves lost but having a blast anyway. No one is ever too old to rock out.
One More Rep
"Tooth and Nail" by State Champs
I'm breaking out of this upstate town, steering away from the safe and sound.
Whether you’re a regular gym rat or a more “casual visitor” (because let’s face it, we all make New Year’s resolutions that are a little too ambitious), “Tooth and Nail” needs to be on your sweat-fest’s music rotation. With everyone going on about the whole “mind over matter” thing regarding pumping iron and running drills, State Champ’s chillingly raw vocals and visceral instrumentals as good as ascend you to a higher plane of existence, triumphantly pulling you through those last few reps where your muscles are screaming for mercy and you’re tempted to just throw in the towel. Trust me, leg days will never be the same again.
Lovestruck
"Stupid for You" by Waterparks
I'm colour-coding my moods: you’re yellow, I’m natural blue.
Find yourself overthinking a simple “Hey”? Can’t get a certain someone’s name out of your head? There’s no shame, we’ve all been there. A testament to Waterparks’ signature playful sound, “Stupid for You” channels the inner teenager nursing an unbearable crush. Front man Awsten Knight links the piece to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity that come hand-in-hand with putting someone else on a pedestal. Sure enough, rapid lines delivered in breathless staccato mimic the exhilarating rush of falling headfirst without knowing what awaits you at the bottom. This grungy rendition of a Shakespeare love poem simply begs to be sung along with. It’s everything you wish you could say but will only ever let loose within the four walls of your bedroom.
It’s Complicated
"SOS" by Sueco and Travis Barker
Lipstick stains, she said it was the last time, but I’m her new favourite pastime.
Speaking of heart eyes, what’s affection without a little dose of complication? But don’t worry, you’re not alone. As the title suggests, “SOS” signals a relationship in crisis. High-octane drums and confrontational lyrics help purge frustrations sparked from that infuriating state of not knowing exactly where you stand—should you be mourning a loss or trying harder? Well, doesn’t matter which course of action you decide upon, at least you’ve got your shower karaoke setlist covered.
Homecoming
"The Afterglow" by Silverstein
Everything that you said echoing in my head, into the afterglow.
This classic by Silverstein is a trigger for nostalgia. It speaks of bittersweet memories and a history that won’t let go. Whether it brings to mind a cherished vacation with the family, a warm childhood friendship or an unfortunate missed connection, there’s something in “The Afterglow” that will resonate with everyone. In fact, it wouldn’t be much of a stretch to say that this track possesses an almost hypnotic quality, sweeping you up in a whirl of intense vocals and heavy rhythms. So why not let the music take you back? Embrace the echo of the past and bask in its afterglow.