Blending elements of hardcore, emo, and indie rock in a melodic cocktail unmatched by scene contemporaries, Atlanta four-piece Microwave balances frankness with a penchant for wit, allowing personal confessions to make a striking impact. Owning the best of the punk continuum, lead vocalist Nathan Hardy will sing, scream and yelp amidst snarling guitar work. While often tipping into the heavier side of resonant punk, the band shines brightest in soft reservation. Their debut record Stovall is simultaneously dynamic and emotionally powerful while still maintaining a poetic edge. Its somber but optimistic mood is flawlessly encapsulated by the lyrics, “you should have known this day would come/I guess if you’re gonna be stupid, then you gotta be tough.” – Audotre