So, while in the city stuffing my face at S’Mac and Max Brenners (a lethally delicious combination), I managed to find some time to stop at Barnes & Noble to pick up the new issue of AP. One blurb on the “Featured Unsigned Bands” page caught my attention, recommending a band to those who like both Hit The Lights and New Found Glory. I know what you’re thinking, chessy knock off. WRONG. 100% WRONG!

This band is called With The Punches. They combine the raw intensity of “Nothing Gold Can Stay” era New Found Glory, with the tightness of Hit The Lights’ “This Is A Stickup”. Not to mention the Four Year Strong-esque breakdowns.

Also, check out my boys, The City Strikes Back. These guys are the real deal. They’ve been doing it for a little over a year now, and have made amazing progress over such a short period of time. They are in the final stages of recording/editing their first EP, which is sure to blow people away (trust me, I’ve heard most of it already). Not to mention the lead vocalist/guitarist happens to be one of my best friends in the entire world.