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If you look back on 2k14, it was undoubtedly Real Friends time to shine within the pop punk district. They released their scene label debut, did a headlining tour across the US of A, and surpassed The Wonder Years and The Story So Far in Facebook likes. But much like a good game of Mario Kart, you should watch your back Real Friends! You may have surpassed those dudes in second and third place but the dude in fourth is quickly gaining speed, and he just got the triple mushroom turbo boost! Of course, I am referring to fellow Chicago betas, Knuckle Puck, who have set out to take the pop punk throne in 2K15. Let’s take a look at what they’ve got going for them…
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Mad Hype
This is probably the most crucial factor that will play into their success. If you take a look at their touring history, they keep climbing the ranks of the scene. From touring the US with Man Overboard and Transit, to touring with Senses Fail on their Let It Enfold You 10 year anniversary, to touring the UK with Neck Deep, and an upcoming US tour with Real Friends and… The Maine (yes you read that right), it is obvious that the momentum is strong and the hype keeps growing.
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Unfortunately Knuckle Puck have fallen victim to the cassette trend :( it’s whatever tho, get them tr00 dollaz, bois
Less Fangirls (for now)
This is also an important aspect that is worth noting. Unlike many other bands in the genre whose fanbases have been overflooded with jailbait, Knuckle Puck have managed to maintain a bit more of an elite group of followers. I’ve even heard lots of people be like “I’m not that into tr00 pop punk… but I do like Knuckle Puck” (ez bros have said this). To be honest, their audience probably will change and get more overrun by fangirls, but I guess it doesn’t really matter. I mean, everyone knows that teenage girls are the strongest market (just look at One Direction or Justin Bieber for example).
Songwriting Ability
This is one of their strongest suits. Let’s take a look at some of the standout tracks from their discography…
I’m not much of a fan of the music video, but their 2013 hit “No Good” has become an undeniable modern classic within the genre.
“This is our song about how we hate social media!! btw follow us on twitter, instagram, facebook, tumblr, youtube, google+ and snapchat”
“I don’t think about you anymo.. wait… nvm”
Very catchy song from their most recent EP
The last track on their latest EP quite possibly might be their best song yet. Trigger warning: emotional coming of age lyrical content within
So do Knuckle Puck have what it takes to make it? It’s all riding on their scene label debut coming this summer on Rise Records…
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Once the tumblr lyric gifs have been made, there’s no turning back!
Does pop punk have any juice left for one more band to make bank off it or is the genre too washed up? Will Real Friends be opening up for Knuckle Puck this time next year? Why do you think the singer hates himself?