Belmont

I'm really digging Chicago's Belmont (locals like me will understand the namesake ;)). It's pop punk with a healthy amount of edginess. But I know that term is overused...so to make an analogy here, these guys are genuinely ripped jeans--not the kind that you get for $50 that say "distressed" on the tag. They're still a recognizable brand, as this is pop punk after all. But the vocals and pace of the music beckon to the rowdiest ones in the mosh pit. You got these guys all torn up at a thrift store for about a quarter of the price, but damn do they make a statement. For fans of early Title Fight, Such Gold, and Knuckle Puck.

Look for their upcoming EP, Between You & Me, which releases 7/25.