Everything is cringe in an increasingly nonchalant world. These days, artists either have to learn to laugh at themselves or grapple with the ever-chafing and eventual dissolution of their ego. The Sonder Bombs seem to have come to a calm acceptance of this truth and treat it almost like an inner joke- one that they let their listeners in on. There’s an undeniable defiance that pulses through their music, especially as they continue to evolve. The Cleveland trio (Willow Hawks, Jer Berkin, and Jimmy Wilkens) is known for balancing bright, kinetic hooks with richly layered arrangements that carry the emotional weight of Hawks’ deeply relatable songwriting.

FFO: Mannequin Pussy / The Killers / Yeah Yeah Yeahs

Snarls is an alternative rock band from Columbus, Ohio, known for their mix of heavy guitars, delicate vocals, and emotionally candid songwriting. Formed by vocalist Chlo White, bassist Riley Hall, and guitarist Mick Martinez, the band emerged from the Midwest DIY scene in 2018 with a sound that blends grunge-tinged alternative rock with indie pop sensibilities. Their music explores themes of growing up, complicated relationships, and self-reflection, delivered with both grit and vulnerability. Since breaking out with their debut album Burst, Snarls has built a devoted following through energetic live shows and a steady stream of hook-driven releases. The last few years have taken Snarls through the many highs and lows a young band faces - everything from playing their first stadium shows, recording overseas, dealing with the devastating departure of a bandmate, and simply balancing life on the road and at home. After recently welcoming drummer Mike Taddeo, Snarls is back and bigger than ever before. The band returned to their roots, writing rock songs in the basement and recording with friends. Snarls’ new EP, In Heaven There’s Rainbows, is clearly a reflection of major growth, both in the band and personal lives. Snarls open up in a way like never before, exploring themes of doubt, determination, addiction, love, lust, and loss - all wrapped up in grungy guitars, booming drums, and gut-wrenchingly ethereal vocals. In Heaven There’s Rainbows is set to release June 26th, 2026 via Take This To Heart Records.