St. Louis has a thriving punk scene with new bands and music veterans leading the charge. In this month’s installment of St. Louis on the Air’s new music round up, Wes Hoffman — lead singer of Wes Hoffman & Friends — joined music show originator Miya Norfleet to discuss their favorite tracks from local talent. Those favorites include pop-punk band Sideways and their debut single “On My Own.”
“I saw [Sideways] play last summer, and I really just fell in love with their music,” he said. “I’m a pop-punk kid at heart and it’s a very catchy, melodic, upbeat song.”
While the majority of this month’s list leans punk rock, Norfleet brought a soulful vibe with “Sunshine” from hip-hop artist Davie Napalm.
“It’s one of those uplifting songs,” she said. “I’m getting out of the winter funk. I’m tired of it. The snow is melting. The sun is literally shining right now. And yes, you have to have some bad times to really appreciate it. And I truly do appreciate the real sunshine.”
Hoffman is also the founder and organizer of 314 Punk and 314 Punk Weekend, an annual event that showcases local punk, hardcore and emo bands like Family Medicine — their new song “Hellitractor” was also featured in this month’s new music round up.
“I love this song and how, as we’re listening to it, every instrument is doing something different,” Hoffman said. “It sounds a little off the wall, but it all fits together, too.”
Hoffman’s band will hit the stage as well with their new song “Promises.”
Norfleet said “Promises” reminds her to take a look at who she surrounds herself with.
“We’re two months into the new year, and [it’s time] for me at least to take stock of who I have in my life, who I have around me and make peace with where things are right now.”
Hoffman also shared tips for the “punk curious” who plan to attend 314 Punk Weekend — expect it to be loud, a little rowdy with a lot of people in a small space, and wear some close toed shoes.
Here is a list of our favorite new releases:
Elater – “youmoveundercoverofnight”
Album – “03.youdreamdeeply”
Inner City Witches – “Who Rules the World?”
Album – “The Law is Not in Heaven”
Family Medicine, Jim Coleman Howes – “Hellitractor”
For more reflections of new and “new-ish” releases from St. Louis-area musicians, listen to St. Louis on the Air on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or click the play button below.
Unleash your emotions with these new music releases from local artists
What: 314 Punk Weekend
When: 2/26 – 3/1
Where: Various locations in St. Louis city
“St. Louis on the Air” brings you the stories of St. Louis and the people who live, work and create in our region. This program was co-produced by Miya Norfleet and Darrious Varner. This show is produced by Miya Norfleet , Emily Woodbury, Danny Wicentowski, Elaine Cha and Alex Heuer. Layla Halilbasic is our production assistant. The audio engineer is Aaron Doerr.
Calling all St. Louis-area artists and music fans: St. Louis on the Air wants your recommendations! Help us discover and feature musical talent in the region by filling out this Google Form. All genres are welcome!