It’s funny how sometimes you don’t think of the different music scenes and bands outside of your city or town, at least I never really thought it. Up until this year, I never imagined I’d be traveling to different cities or states. I never thought about seeing different bands or even getting to know them the way I have over the past year. “The Swamp”, and effectively named so, is a group of bands stretching from Pennsylvania to Chicago and Wisconsin. The cool thing about them is that, despite the distance, a lot of them are close friends.
This summer I attended a few “Swamp tours” and most of the time, I’ve seen the same bands, just in different venues with different tour names, but more or less the same line up. Most people reading this will automatically know what group of bands I’m talking about, but just incase you don’t, the bands I’m reflecting on are 7 Minutes in Heaven, An Honest Year, and Walkney.
Most people who follow me on Tumblr or Twitter have seen my reviews and feelings on each band, so I won’t go into detail. Before moving on and probably offending people, I just want to add that each of the previously mentioned bands are incredibly talented, I’m writing this because it’s something I’ve been reflecting on relating to these bands. For a good part of this year, I’ve been able to witness so much talent and be apart of the creative process for so many artists. I’ve learned so much by just witnessing what these talented individuals can do and are going to do that I need to put it out there. If you agree, or even disagree, with this, tell me! I want to discuss and I want other opinions. If i offend you, sorry I guess.
Walkney, previously known as The Big Time, have always impressed me. The way Derek conveys every emotions he has into singing is chill worthy. The way they dropped the name change and the meaning behind it was an effortless transition from what they were to what they’re becoming. A name change, a video on the meaning, and a new song entitled “North”. A song that has feeling, drive, and sincerity behind it. “North”, at least for me, has a Twin Atlantic and Dashboard Confessional feel. The way it builds and comes in with these raw and incredible runs by Mrdjenovich; I can’t stop listening. Walkney suddenly have this aura around them. The seem content and ready to take on anything. Walkway will break free from the swamp and soon, the talent in that band will be too big for this small scene.
7 Minutes in Heaven have been creating a lot of buzz lately. 7MIH are a prime example of what happens when you work hard and have a true passion for music. Their single, “I’m Okay”, was a perfect song to drop to get people ready for their upcoming EP. The work they put into the EP shows, in the music alone, the intricate parts and real passion you can feel just through the instruments. I have a true appreciation for 7MIH. I appreciate how much they tour and how much they give back to their fans. I wholeheartedly believe that 7MIH are going to be a breakout artist next year. 7MIH have been touring, constantly putting out music, and interacting with their fans so much they’ve built trust and love with the fanbase they have and it just keeps growing. I can’t wait to see what they do when they leave and break into a bigger scene and really break out into the band they’re growing into.
I knew who An Honest Year were before I saw them live, but after seeming them live it clocked as to why they have such a big and dedicated fanbase. As a group on stage, I’ve talked about the aura and presence they have, but I think it’s what they have off stage that males fans stick around. Off stage, they are some of the most personable guys I’ve ever met. They don’t do the weird voice every band guy does when they meet fans and you know what I’m talking about; “OMG Hi! thank for coming I’m so glad you could make it!”, in that high pitched voice. They read you like people—like friends, not fans.
They also have the ability to make their set sound and feel new every time you see them. I saw them a few times this year and the setlist hasn’t changed, but it felt like it did. A new cover would be added, but even their own songs always sounded better, tighter, and believe it or not, but they would have 10x more enthusiasm than they did before. This group of guys have been working harder than any band I’ve seen. There’s no doubt that AHY will own 2016. An Honest Year have potential to be playing HOB’s across the country and opening for bands like State Champs or Seaway. I put my whole hear and all of my faith in this band breaking out of the box people put them in.
I don’t even know what to say about The Millenium. To me, they’re one of the best bands in this scene. The Millenium make a difference without even trying. They make you feel an indescribable happiness that can only be classified as unreal carelessness. Without saying, they let you know that it’s okay to feel the way that you do. The Millennium make music for you to dance to and forget every problem you came in there with.
They easily make their shows a safe haven for their fans. As a whole, this band is naturally creative but not only with the lyrics in their songs. Everything they do—particularly their videos—present a certain originality that many bands lack today. I don’t even have words to describe The Millenium. You need to see them live and experience for yourself what they can do. The Millenium have something cooking and I can tell you that they won;t be stuck in this scene for long,
These are bands that I’ve reflected on, I’ve watched a lot of them do so much this year and the work they’ve put in shouldn't go unrecognized. 2015 was a good year for music in general, but i can feel that 2016 will be a GREAT year in music for this scene. Don’t be surprised when you start seeing these names a lot more or when they’re opening for your favorite bands. Mark my words, these guys will take the industry by storm next year.
