The Smoking Popes are a beloved band known for their unique blend of punk rock and pop melodies. If you’re a fan of their sound and looking to explore similar artists, you’re in for a treat. Here are 12 bands and artists that capture the essence of The Smoking Popes’ genre.
1. Alkaline Trio
Alkaline Trio is a punk rock band from Chicago, much like The Smoking Popes. Their catchy melodies and dark, introspective lyrics can be heard in popular songs like “Radio” and “Mercy Me.” Albums such as From Here to Infirmary and Good Mourning are essential listens.
2. The Get Up Kids
The Get Up Kids are pioneers in the emo and punk rock scenes. Known for their heartfelt lyrics and energetic performances, their hit songs include “Holiday” and “Action & Action.” Check out their albums Something to Write Home About and On a Wire.
3. Saves The Day
Saves The Day offers a mix of punk rock and emo, similar to The Smoking Popes. Their track “At Your Funeral” and the album Stay What You Are are fan favorites. Their evolution over the years has kept their sound fresh and engaging.
4. Jawbreaker
Jawbreaker is a seminal punk band that has influenced countless others, including The Smoking Popes. Songs like “Boxcar” and “Accident Prone” showcase their raw energy and lyrical prowess. The album Dear You remains a classic in the genre.
5. The Promise Ring
The Promise Ring blends emo and indie rock with a punk edge. Their songs “Red & Blue Jeans” and “Why Did We Ever Meet” are perfect examples of their style. Albums like Nothing Feels Good and Very Emergency are must-listens.
6. The Ataris
The Ataris bring a pop-punk vibe that fans of The Smoking Popes will appreciate. Known for their cover of “The Boys of Summer” and original tracks like “In This Diary,” their album So Long, Astoria is particularly noteworthy.
7. Motion City Soundtrack
Motion City Soundtrack combines pop-punk with synth elements, creating a unique sound. Hits like “Everything Is Alright” and “The Future Freaks Me Out” are standout tracks. Albums such as Commit This to Memory and My Dinosaur Life are essential.
8. Bayside
Bayside offers a darker, more melodic take on punk rock. Their songs “Devotion and Desire” and “Sick, Sick, Sick” highlight their emotional depth. Albums like Bayside and Killing Time showcase their consistent quality.
9. Mest
Mest blends pop-punk with a bit of ska and alternative rock. Tracks like “Cadillac” and “Jaded” are fan favorites. Their self-titled album Mest and Destination Unknown are great starting points.
10. The Bouncing Souls
The Bouncing Souls are a staple in the punk rock scene with their anthemic songs. “True Believers” and “Hopeless Romantic” are some of their most popular tracks. Albums like How I Spent My Summer Vacation and Anchors Aweigh are highly recommended.
11. Face to Face
Face to Face delivers straightforward punk rock with catchy hooks. Songs like “Disconnected” and “Blind” are classics. Their albums Big Choice and Face to Face are essential listens for any punk rock fan.
12. The Lawrence Arms
The Lawrence Arms combine punk rock with intelligent, often humorous lyrics. Tracks like “The Devil’s Takin’ Names” and “Are You There Margaret? It’s Me, God.” are standout songs. Albums such as Oh! Calcutta! and Apathy and Exhaustion are must-listens.
