Polar Bear Club

...The Rochester-bred fivesome of Polar Bear Club are easily one of the best up-and-coming punk bands right now who can channel the olden days of classic East Coast punk while still being sonically progressive with their modernization of it. Despite being every bit a gritty piss-and-vinegar style punk band, frontman Jimmy Stadt brings an infectious enthusiasm to the stage and an uncommon intellectualism to his lyrics. Likewise, his band mates can match his energy beat for beat, making for a high-energy set that actually gives you something to think about at the same time. Underneath his perma-smile and skill as a wordsmith though, Stadt is still one of the most intense front man in all of rock. Whether growling out social commentary or getting more introspective with his signature sandpaper-throated crooning, Stadt owns any mic he holds and any stage he stands on... - Brien Overly