Curious what notable personalities in the scene think was great this year? So is TGEFM! So we reached out to some of our favorite luminaries ranging from musicians, label personnel, and more for their “Best of 2025” lists. Now, listen: TGEFM is not a taskmistress. Contributors can write these out however they want. So if it doesn’t actually look or read like a list… and sometimes it really is just a list with no other observations! Who cares?
In 2025, my twelve year old taught me that when something is good, we say “It ate.” Atlanta’s The Carolyn released the stunning record Pyramid Scheme Of Grief and it ATE… left no crumbs. And if you’re curious what The Carolyn ate this year, vocalist/guitarist Andrew Patrick is here to share the best sandwiches of 2025.
1. Carver Chopped Cheese – Cobra Cabana (Richmond, VA)
Arguably one of the best meals I’ve ever had in my life. So good it will make you consider moving to Richmond.
2. Cuban Gator – Flaco’s (Gainesville, FL)
I’ve had supposedly “authentic” or “great” Cuban food many times in my life, and it all sucks compared to this. Best place in Gainesville and usually the first place I go.
3. Big Beef Sandwich – Portillo’s (Chicago, IL)
It’s fast food, sure, but it’s probably the best fast food you’re gonna get.
4. Breaded Steak Sandwich – Ricobene’s (Chicago, IL)
You don’t really finish this sandwich as much as you survive it. One of the most memorable meals of my life
Bad Dad (occasionally called Ed) has been on the periphery of the punk and punk-adjacent scene for over twenty years. While many contributors to this site have musical experience and talent, Ed’s musical claim to fame comes from his time in arguably the most punk rock Blockbuster Video district in NJ where he worked alongside members of Blanks 77, Best Hit TV and Brian Fallon. He is more than just an awful father to his 2 daughters, he is also a dreadful husband, a subpar writer, a terrible dresser and has a severe deficiency in all things talent… but hey, at least he’s self-aware, amirite?
Check out the pathetic attempts at photography on his insta at https://www.instagram.com/bad_dad_photography/