Concert Review: Punk, Hip Hop, and Indie Collide in Unconventional Harmony
On June 10th, the rooftop of the Georgia Theatre in Athens became a melting pot of genres as COMMÜNE, Straitjacket Strippers, Trvy and Friends, and Honeypuppy took the stage. For those still in Athens this summer, it was a chance to experience an eclectic lineup where punk rock, hip-hop, and indie music harmoniously intersect. In the Athens music scene, it's normal that musicians are in multiple bands, and because of that the bill came together with so many different aesthetics but also a strong unspoken cohesion.
Honeypuppy playing the Georgia Theatre rooftop. Photo taken by Rania Akbar.
Opening the show was Honeypuppy whose sound navigates between warm, rolling indie sounds and brutal, dense pop punk. From their single "Tennabaum" to songs that explore darker themes like serial killers and the McDonald triad, Honeypuppy showcased their versatility and range. Their sound represents a sort of duality between the laidback slacker and the angsty punk rocker. Lead vocalist Josie's nursery rhyme inspired songwriting added a touch of nostalgic charm to their performance.
Josie Callahan performing with Honeypuppy. Photo taken by Rania Akbar.
Having formed over the pandemic, the band comprises Jack Colclough, Josie Callahan, Will Wise, and Adam Wayton on bass, and has just finished recording five songs that will soon be released. Catch them at AthFest on Sunday at 2:30 pm on the main stage.
Straightjacket Strippers took the stage next. While I wasn't able to interview the band members, their performance created the most intense mosh pit of the entire show. They deliver their message of “LOUD ASS SLUDGE NOISE FROM THE DEPTHS OF THE SEX SHOP PSYCH WARD” with explosive energy and “fuck you” style.
Straightjacket Strippers performing on the Georgia Theatre rooftop. Photo taken by Rania Akbar.
Trvy and Friends had an incredible performance full of surprise guests. As a rapper who has been grinding it out in the music industry since 2017, Trvy's inclusion in the lineup stood out as a deviation from the punk and indie vibes of the night. However, his presence elevated the show to new heights, showcasing the connective aura of music. Trvy’s energy is palpable and infectious and I can’t wait to see him, his friends, and his band The Enemy at AthFest.
Trvy rapping to a crowd on the Georgia Theatre rooftop. Photo taken by Rania Akbar.
Closing out the show was COMMÜNE composed of Zeina Khalif, J. Ben, Blake Scarborough, and Kyle Demartino. Brought together by a shared appreciation for heavy music, their performance expressed their anger and frustration with a raw and unapologetic intensity. COMMÜNE was brought about by the community for the community. With a style that blends the heavy sound of 90’s garage rock with the social angst of riot girl era punk bands, their energy is unmistakable, reminding people that society is unfair and there’s a lot of shit to be pissed off about.
The members of COMMÜNE closing the show. Photo taken by Rania Akbar.
Overall, this concert provided a refreshing fusion of genres, showcasing the diversity and talent of the Athens music scene.
