MakeWar embodies the spirit of defiance, a battle against the forces of ignorance and hatred. It's a rebellion against societal expectations, a relentless pursuit of personal freedom and self-expression. It's a testament to resilience, a defiant stand against the pull of despair. MakeWar is a rallying cry for dreamers, a toast to those who dare to scream their truths. It's a ferocious fight against the shackles of conformity, a liberating act of breaking free. The sound of MakeWar is the exhilarating roar of liberation, the sonic embodiment of letting go.

Restorations: A Philadelphia Rock Band With Deep Roots

Restorations, hailing from the vibrant music scene of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a rock band that emerged from the ashes of the post-hardcore group Jena Berlin. The band's core members – vocalist and guitarist Jon Loudon, guitarist Dave Klyman, and original drummer Jeff Meyers (who later joined Belgrade and Ma Jolie) – have been making music together for over a decade.

Initially conceived as a "once-a-month/easy-band," Restorations has blossomed into a touring powerhouse, consistently hitting the road to share their music with dedicated fans. The band's musical journey began with a 7" release on Evil Weevil records, featuring the tracks "Frankford" and "Of Trees," which showcased their raw energy and musical prowess.

Their next step was a partnership with Paper + Plastick for their "Strange Behavior" EP, released digitally and on 10" vinyl. While this arrangement didn't last, it paved the way for Restorations' first full-length album, released on Tiny Engines. They subsequently partnered with SideOneDummy for their second and third albums, both recorded by Jon Low, a respected engineer who has worked with acclaimed acts like The National and Twin Sister at Miner Street Studio.

The band's fourth album, "LP5000," dropped in September 2018 on Tiny Engines, solidifying their status as a formidable force in the independent music scene. Their latest release, their self-titled fifth album, arrived in 2024.

A Look at Their Discography

Studio Albums

• LP1 (2011)
• LP2 (2013)
• LP3 (2014)
• LP5000 (2018)
• Restorations (2024)

EPs

• Strange Behavior (2010)

Singles & 7" Releases

• "See/Sea"
• "Call and Response IV"
• "New/Old"
• "A/B"
• Split with Rosetta
• "Frankford/Of Trees"

A Legacy of Passion and Dedication

Restorations stands as a testament to the power of friendship and shared musical vision. Their journey, from a casual side project to a formidable touring band, is a testament to their dedication to their craft. With a catalogue of critically acclaimed albums, they have solidified their place in the world of rock music, leaving their mark on the scene with their unique blend of energy and emotion.

Cobra Skulls: A Punk Rock Powerhouse From The West Coast

Cobra Skulls, a band that's earned their stripes in the punk rock scene, initially emerged from the gritty streets of Reno, Nevada. Their raw energy and infectious tunes soon caught the attention of Red Scare Industries, who signed them and released their debut album "Sitting Army" in 2007. This album marked the beginning of a thrilling journey, characterized by relentless touring and a growing fanbase.

The band's signature sound, a potent mix of melodic punk and hardcore, propelled them forward. They shared the stage with punk legends like Against Me!, Mad Caddies, and the Loved Ones, solidifying their place as a force to be reckoned with. However, the journey wasn't without its changes. Charlie Parker, one of the founding guitarists, left the band in 2008, leading to the addition of Adam Beck on second guitar.

Despite this shift, Cobra Skulls continued their upward trajectory, releasing their second album "American Rubicon" in 2009. This album showcased their maturity and evolution as a band, solidifying their reputation as one of the most exciting punk rock acts of their generation.

From their humble beginnings in Reno to their embrace of the San Francisco Bay Area, Cobra Skulls have consistently delivered a potent cocktail of punk rock passion and musical talent. Their three studio albums, five EPs, and three 7" splits stand as a testament to their unwavering commitment to their craft and their ability to connect with fans through raw, authentic music.

Hot Water Music: A Punk Rock Powerhouse From Gainesville

Hot Water Music, a legendary American punk rock band, emerged from the vibrant music scene of Gainesville, Florida, in October 1994. The band's core lineup has remained remarkably consistent, featuring Chuck Ragan and Chris Wollard sharing vocal and guitar duties, bassist Jason Black, and drummer George Rebelo. Since 2017, guitarist-vocalist Chris Cresswell joined the ranks, adding another layer of musical depth.

Hot Water Music's journey has been marked by both intense passion and a healthy dose of punk rock chaos. While the band initially called it quits in August 1998, they reunited just two months later, demonstrating their enduring commitment to their music. Despite a second split in 2006, they remained active, re-emerging in 2008 with a renewed fire.

The Genesis of a Punk Rock Legacy:

The band's origins can be traced back to the sunny shores of Sarasota, where Ragan, Black, and Rebelo crossed paths. Black and Rebelo had already forged a musical bond, performing together in local jazz ensembles. Ragan and Rebelo met while working at eateries on the same street, a spot that quickly became a hub for Sarasota's burgeoning music scene. Meanwhile, Wollard, based in nearby Bradenton, connected with the trio at a frequently used storage facility that served as a rehearsal space for both Sarasota and Bradenton bands.

United by a common frustration with the lack of musical opportunities in their hometowns, Black, who was already studying at the University of Florida, proposed a move to Gainesville. The city, renowned for its rich musical heritage, offered a fertile ground for the band's explosive punk rock sound to blossom.

This relocation, fueled by their shared passion and ambitions, marked the beginning of an enduring musical legacy for Hot Water Music. They would go on to become one of the most influential punk bands of their generation, earning critical acclaim and a fiercely loyal fanbase who embraced their raw energy and poignant lyrics.

Streetlight Manifesto: A New Jersey Ska-Punk Powerhouse

Streetlight Manifesto burst onto the scene in 2002, hailing from New Brunswick, New Jersey. This ska-punk band, forged in the crucible of the state's vibrant third-wave ska community, quickly made a name for themselves.

The band's roots run deep in the New Jersey ska scene. Several members, including frontman Tomas Kalnoky, were veterans of the influential ska-punk band Catch 22. Other founding members came from One Cool Guy, another prominent New Jersey ska band. This collective experience gave Streetlight Manifesto a distinct edge, blending their individual backgrounds into a potent musical cocktail.

Their debut album, "Everything Goes Numb," dropped in August 2003, courtesy of Victory Records. The album solidified their sound, a blend of fast-paced ska, punk rock energy, and socially conscious lyrics, all delivered with Kalnoky's distinctive raspy vocals. The album's success was quickly apparent; Streetlight Manifesto sold out their first headline show at Rutgers University in December 2003, cementing their status as a force to be reckoned with.

Before their official debut, the band had already released an independent EP, "A Call to Arms," as the "Bandits of the Acoustic Revolution." This EP showcased their early musical direction, with tracks like "Here's to Life," which later received a reworked version for "Everything Goes Numb." The EP also featured a new version of Catch 22's "Dear Sergio," highlighting Kalnoky's songwriting talent. This collaborative effort, along with their early recordings, paved the way for their meteoric rise, proving that Streetlight Manifesto was a band with a unique sound and a clear vision for the future.

A Wilhelm Scream: A Melodic Hardcore Force from New Bedford

A Wilhelm Scream (AWS) is a melodic hardcore band from New Bedford, Massachusetts, known for their energetic, infectious, and often chaotic sound. Their music blends the intensity of hardcore with catchy melodies, drawing comparisons to bands like Strung Out, Hot Water Music, Propagandhi, and Strike Anywhere.

The band's name is a nod to the iconic "Wilhelm scream," a famous stock sound effect widely used in movies. This playful reference reflects the band's own unique brand of energetic and memorable music.

A Storied History:

AWS's journey began long before their current moniker. They emerged from the ashes of several earlier bands, including Adam's Crack, Koen, and Smackin' Isaiah. These early bands honed their musical chops, experimenting with styles like Nirvana-inspired grunge and skate punk/ska before settling on their signature melodic hardcore sound.

From Early Days to A Wilhelm Scream:

In 1993, the core of A Wilhelm Scream formed as Adam's Crack, releasing a demo cassette. Over the following years, members from several bands joined forces, forming Koen and eventually, Smackin' Isaiah, who released their first major recordings.

The transition to A Wilhelm Scream was a natural progression, marking a new chapter for the band as they solidified their sound and identity. The name change also reflected their commitment to crafting their own distinctive musical voice.

Stay Tuned for More:

A Wilhelm Scream's story is one of passion, perseverance, and evolution. They continue to captivate audiences with their high-energy live shows and compelling music, solidifying their place as a major force in the world of melodic hardcore.

Gozu reigns supreme, and we're all just inhabitants of their world. Five years after their earth-shattering album "Equilibrium," the Boston quartet returns with "Remedy," a sonic explosion that leaves no doubt: Gozu are the undisputed kings of American rock. This new release marks a monumental evolution, pushing their already formidable sound to previously unimaginable heights. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer to their electrifying world, "Remedy" will make you realize – Gozu are in a league of their own.

Hailing from the sun-drenched state of California, Lowlives is a four-piece alternative rock band forged from the creative partnership of vocalist Lee Downer and drummer Luke Johnson. Their music is steeped in the raw energy of '90s alternative and grunge, channeling the spirit of those iconic eras into their own distinct sound. The band unleashed their debut album, "Freaking Out," upon the world in May 2024, marking a significant milestone in their musical journey.

A Second Strike of Lightning: Sean Van Vleet's Triumphant Return to Music

In the fickle world of music, success is rarely a guarantee, especially for those who have tasted it before. Yet, Sean Van Vleet defies the odds, proving that sometimes, lightning strikes the same place twice. After the dissolution of his former band, Empires, Van Vleet found himself writing for others, penning songs for the likes of All Time Low, Oliver Tree, and PVRIS, while also contributing to over 200 tracks for television shows, commercials, and video games.

However, a creative spark ignited within him, leading him to form Blame My Youth in 2020. The band’s debut single, "Right Where You Belong," found its way onto the GRAMMY-nominated soundtrack of "Bill & Ted Face the Music," solidifying their presence and captivating audiences. The momentum continued with their subsequent single, "Fantastic," which amassed millions of streams and climbed the Rock radio charts.

As Blame My Youth toured the US and UK, sharing stages with renowned acts like HARDY, The Offspring, 311, and AWOLNATION, their third single, "Prizefighter," made its mark on US Alternative radio. This whirlwind of success showcased the undeniable connection Van Vleet’s music has with listeners.

A pivotal moment arrived when Van Vleet began collaborating closely with Billboard Top 100 Producer of 2023, Joey Moi, the co-founder of Big Loud Rock. What began as a typical songwriter-producer dynamic evolved into something more profound. In the studio, they unexpectedly began writing together, discovering a shared passion for the creative process. This newfound synergy resulted in "The Break," a song that marks the beginning of a new chapter for both Van Vleet and Blame My Youth.

"The Break," while undeniably infectious and upbeat, delves into a deeper vulnerability and emotional rawness that sets it apart from Van Vleet's previous work. This transformative track signifies a fresh start, and as he boldly declares, "It's only going to get better and bigger from here." Van Vleet's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, artistic evolution, and the enduring magic of music that resonates across generations.

Los Angeles-based rock band Point North has released their sophomore album, "Prepare For Despair," to critical acclaim. Following their debut LP in August 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the band has only headlined a single tour, a sold-out North American run in April 2022. They've gained valuable experience supporting major acts like ADTR, Sleeping With Sirens/Don Broco, Atreyu, and Escape The Fate. Building on this momentum, Point North will embark on their own headlining tour for the new album in spring 2024.

The band has already made a strong impression on the music scene with collaborations alongside artists like Fever 333/Garzi, Kayzo/BTSM, Two Friends, Jeris Johnson, and The Ghost Inside. In a significant step, they took their first single to Active Rock radio in spring 2023, achieving a peak position of #20 on the Mediabase/Billboard chart and topping the secondary market chart. Their second radio single, "Below The Belt ft Set It Off," impacted rock radio on October 17th, 2023, receiving the most adds across the country.