A musical lighthouse, shining a resilient light for everyone that has had to pull themselves up by their bootstraps, Tropidelic has arrived on the national stage. Hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, a city rich in character and music history, this six-piece performance powerhouse carves their own path with an independent mentality. Front man Roads, explores feelings more than sounds, seeing where the emotional travel can take him, while valuing being comfortable and honest.

There is a sense of seeing where the music can go on their 2024 new album. As an everyman-band making music to overcome life’s obstacles, the “goals” that Tropidelic made when starting the band have all been surpassed. Roads says of the band’s future, “I’m nose to the grindstone. It’s going great and I am going to keep going.”

Bumpin Uglies' new album, Lyrics Over Everything, hits all the right notes and then some. With 14 tracks of reggae-punk-ska brilliance coupled with a hint of folksy bluegrass, this Annapolis-based band showcases their unique sound, drawing on influences from every corner of the musical universe. Whether it’s the introspective musings of “Underdog” or the infectious energy of “Passion Is Contagious,” the album is a testament to their DIY ethos and relentless dedication.

Lyrics Over Everything includes a track of the same name. Released earlier this year, this single is a heady mix of heartfelt lyricism and driving beats, featuring another Maryland native, Joey Harkum. Hardesty's vocal delivery is raw and unapologetic, a perfect fit for the song’s theme of prioritizing authenticity over superficiality. This track supports the tone for an album that is both introspective and outwardly rebellious.