Sounds Rad – 18 Feb 2026
Coming out stronger in the face of loss
It pleases me greatly to report that 2026 has brought us the sophomore release of Semi-Famous. For those unaware, this band was conceived out of the fictional band in singer/guitarist John “Jughead” Pierson’s novel Weasels In A Box. John is joined by a grand cast consisting of scene staples such as Poli Van Damn (ex-The Bombpops) on guitar and Ryan Rockwell (Mixtapes) fame on bass. Sadly, original member and guitarist Billy Brown had passed by the time of the band’s debut, Destroy Ourselves, released in 2024. Much of this album’s lyrical content stems from the band member’s dealing with the passing of their friend and band mate.
The short intro track “Unphased” kicks of this sixteen-song roller coaster of emotions. This song sets the pace properly for what is to come next. “Phase” is a Jughead fronted song which will please lifelong fans of his work in previous bands, primarily Screeching Weasel, and chock full of mid-tempo greatness and catchy guitar leads. The band takes a more alt-rock approach on “Side Of River” which follows, with the talented backing vocals of Poli Van Damn shining on this one.
“Run Away” is a major album highlight and stands out against others. This 90’s style pop-punker hits all the heartstrings. The emotions ring even higher on “Devil Does Dope.” This loose and fun sounding track deals with loss and holding on, leading into Poli showcasing her lead vocal abilities on “Theatrical!” This epic track boasts various vocal style changes in a short time frame. “The Betrayal B4” is a short 27 second quickly strummed acoustic track. Pop-punk veterans will certainly question that song length! Next up is “The Best Treachery,” closing out Side A. It tells the tale of someone who did you wrong. Vocally, this could have fit on the Mitochondriacs recordings John was involved with a few years back. This track boasts an almost prog rock bridge before heading right back to a rocking ending.
“Orange Grove Insert” is extremely introspective. This is a more epic and progressive punk rock track dealing with reflection, and questioning your current life status and the events which brought you to this point. The bass driven “Blame Takes Two” carries an amazing groove, with the word “questioning” is repeated throughout the song. The subject matter questions everything from relationships to career choice. Furthermore, it questions who is to blame for such life choices.
“Billy The Fucker” takes a true turn to Ramonescore. Musically, this might be what most might expect from this collective of musicians. This song is a tribute to their band mate and scene legend Billy Brown. The ferocity of this track seems extremely therapeutic.
A fun drinking song begging one to make the best out of a bad situation, “Little Lemonade” has a true pub rock feel, complete with trumpet. “Buzz Off” makes you want to open up the pit and let all your emotions take the best of you. This hard rocker could easily be a commercial radio hit. Poli sings with an equal amount of emotion and conviction to deliver the message to a third party, who causes much irritation, to simply go away. A well-placed kazoo adds to the fun and awesomeness of this track.
A surprising emotional dual-vocal alt-country rocker in the form of “Dixie Deli” builds continuously throughout. “All Dried Up No. 10” is an acoustic diddy about having fear of dying alone. “Take 5” closes out this collection of songs mostly paying tribute to their friend. This unique track takes a showtune approach, complete with marching snare drum and piano. Poli’s lyrics cut through strong through the laid back non-electric presentation. Taking five here allows one to slow down to ponder what might go through your head in your final moments.
Semi-Famous has managed to make lemonade out of being handed the bitterest of lemons. They easily could have given up in the wake of the loss of their friend. Instead, they chose to continue to band together to write some extremely strong and emotional tracks of love and reflection. Musically, Semi-Famous takes us on an unexpected journey that effectively delivers how they have dealt with their own pain. It should be pointed out that this album rocks very hard and will please the choosiest of punk rockers!
Bandcamp (digital DL)
Sounds Rad (vinyl)
I am mostly known in cyberspace as a vinyl junkie and punk rock bassist! Fair assessment. I am the bassist of the Chicago area power pop / pop punk band SPACE AGE ZEROS.