Our Favorite Shows of 2025
Written by: Sofia Lisena & Karen Larkin
As 2025 comes to a close, I have been looking back on all of the shows that I went to. I went to a total of 32 shows, a lot with my long-time friend and fellow photographer Karen Larkin. We decided to write about our favorite shows of the year, highlighting all of the artists we feel deserve more love, and bands that you should go see next year!
1. Dilly Dally Fest Day 2 - Underground Arts 11/16
Words & Videos by Sofia
As someone who semi-frequently visits Philadelphia, I can tell you that the shows there are some of my favorite shows I’ve ever been to. And this was definitely no exception. Presented by Bread Box Booking, the annual two-day emo festival based in Philadelphia, Dilly Dally Fest hosts many independent bands, both older and new. I was only able to catch the last day and the last five sets of that day, but it was still the best show I went to all year. The crowd was made up of a diverse group of people, young and old, all so excited to see these bands.
The Exploration - “I Guess, I’m Leaving”
Starting with a 2010s midwest emo sound, The Exploration started their set as soon as I joined the crowd. The Exploration put on a great show, especially as this was their first show in over a decade! Their sound is very emotive and moving, and definitely got me to start listening to them!
Heavy Heavy Low Low - “Eating the Porridge and Killing the Bears”
Second was Heavy Heavy Low Low, a mathcore band from San Jose that has been in the scene since the early 2000s. Their sound was heavy (no pun intended) and full of intense energy, as the crowd started to go wild for them.
First Day Back - “Sure, Ok”
First Day Back - “Lines”
After them was the band I was most excited to see, First Day Back, an emo band from Santa Cruz that takes inspiration from 90s second-wave emo bands like Braid and The Promise Ring. This was their first time on the East Coast, and they knocked it out of the park. They played a few songs from their debut album Foward like “Sure, Ok,” “Us,” “Lines,” and ended the set with “Twelve Mile Train Tracks.” Lead singer Maggie was the star of the show as her voice was somehow even better live, pouring so much raw emotion into the audience that they mirrored it back.
Your Arms Are My Cocoon - “City on Fire (Closeness)”
Next was Your Arms Are My Cocoon, a bedroom screamo band from Chicago. I’ve heard of the band but never listened to their music, so I was surprised when they had a saxophonist as part of the band. Once they started to play, I realized why so many people were specifically there to see them. Their sound is so innovative, with quiet instrumentals but loud, heart-wrenching screams, and translates so well live now that I have listened to their songs. They played both songs from their self-titled debut EP and their 2024 album, Death of a Rabbit.
Febuary - “Bitches Love My White Belt”
Last but certainly not least was Las Vegas screamo band Febuary. I first saw Febuary in August when I saw them open for Midrift with I Promised The World at Elsewhere. Although I loved that performance, this one at the more intimate Underground Arts was much more impactful. To be in a tight crowd with everyone screaming the lyrics to songs like “Beautiful, Beautiful, Beautiful,” “Slow Dance Tune For Abigail,” and “Run Like a Girl” felt so cathartic. The crowd was the craziest for them. Their set did get a little cut short for time, but I’m still so glad I was able to see them up close and personal right before they take the Coachella stage in 2026.
All these bands were great, and I would definitely recommend catching them for any upcoming shows in the new year! I’d also recommend following Bread Box Booking (@breadboxphilly) to try to catch a show they put on! They hosted this wonderful show, which included fundraisers for Palestine and the Bread & Roses Community Fund. Through previous shows, they have also supported their community in Philly in multiple ways!
2. Persephone Rises DIY - Stone Circle Theater 11/29
Words & Photos by Sofia
Persephone Rises DIY is a fem-owned and centered booking organization based in NYC. By promoting and booking shows with ALL fem-fronted acts, they are actively creating a community around this idea that has started to become popular in the space: GIRLS DO IT BETTER! They are all-inclusive shows; all ages, independently run and funded, usually at DIY spaces, and cheap, open to anyone, unless you’re a terf or nazi, of course. In November, they put on a show with a bill of nine fem-fronted bands, all different genres ranging from metal to emo and screamo. Each band I saw had so much raw emotion and energy put into their performances, each giving the crowd what they needed. Each set had a huge mosh pit that was active at all times. The bands that I got to see were Lake Lanier, Baby’s Breath, COMPLY, Static Brian, In Jest, Snowfall, Ursa, and mybodywasfoundinahallowtree. As a woman, it was so great to see an all fem-fronted line-up with a crowd of people who cared to show up and support them. If you want to read more in-depth about this show and each band that played, click here to read my other blog about the show!
3. Friend - Third Rail 11/7
Words, Videos, & Photo by Sofia
“MISTER NICE GUY”
“PRAY FOR ME”
Friend is an indie-punk band hailing from Philadelphia that truly knows how to put on a show that will stick with you forever. Part of their completely independent national tour, they embarked on this Fall hitting 32 cities, Friend stopped in Brooklyn at a staple DIY spot, the Third Rail. Supporting acts, The Nostranders and Gramma, were great, especially Gramma with their harsh and grungy sound. The entire night, people were moshing without stopping in the small space they had. Friend played some new, unreleased songs that I’m hoping to be on their upcoming album. They also played staples from their Goblin EP like “MUXUS” and “PRAY FOR ME.” The whole night had me headbanging and jumping in between taking pictures. I know they are probably slowing down next year after doing two national tours, but if you ever have the chance to see them, please take it! Even if you don’t think it’ll be your taste, they will become one of your favorite acts from the DIY scene.
4. TVOD Album Release - Baby’s All Right 8/8
Words, Video, & Photos by Sofia
“Bend”
TVOD’s debut album Party Time was one of my favorite records of this year. So to be able to go to their album release show was so exciting. As we interviewed them at a bar before the show for the second issue of the magazine (coming out very soon!), I can tell how excited they all were for this show. They definitely translated this excitement into their performance. The opening bands, Balaclava and CDSM, had a similar energy and sound to TVOD, preparing us for what was to end the night. Once TVOD entered the stage, they immediately started with so much intensity, capturing the focus of the audience. People were moving, whether it was moshing, dancing, or a bit of both, the entirety of the night. TVOD played their new songs like “Party Time,” “Uniform,” “Pool House,” and one of my personal favorites, “Super Spy.” Each band member brought such power and grit to the performance. I’ve been trying to catch another show of theirs since, and you should definitely try to as well!
5. Holidays In United States Album Release - Trans Pecos 12/13
Words, Videos, & Photos by Sofia
Zachshots
The Dallas Cowboys
Holidays in United States - “RIP J. Mascis”
Holidays in United States have been becoming a staple in the New York emo scene since they released their debut album Holidays in United States last year and ended this year by releasing their sophomore album This Is My Second Rodeo. The day after its release, they had a show at Trans Pecos where they played their album in full, plus a few of their older songs and some even newer ones! The night started with openers and friends Reading, Zachshots, and The Dallas Cowboys. Each set was very different from the others, but so interesting to watch. Each one is experimenting within their respective genres. I would say that The Dallas Cowboys had the craziest crowd with the amount of crowd surfing and jumping, which is appropriate for their music. Holidays put on one of their best performances yet, starting the set off with one of their most beloved songs, “1v1” before getting into the album. They ended the night playing two new songs featuring Cash Only Tony’s and Zachshots singer Annika. Each of these bands is a must-see for the new year.
6. SAMSARA. - Gutter Bar 10/26
Words, Video, & Photos by Karen
“STREAMLINE”
We’ve seen many SAMSARA. shows, but Gutter Bar definitely takes the cake for this year. The venue was absolutely sick, with its stage sitting next to a full bar, pool table, and bowling alley! The five-piece band played this iconic spot in late October. Their setlist is always dynamic, mixing in something for everyone - whether it's for the casual listener who might know them for hits such as “Out of Sight” or “Streamline”, or the hardcore fans who love their unreleased tunes. These guys are always bringing their A-game, and more than deliver every time they step on stage. 2026 is bound to be a great year full of surprises from them (including a new album releasing in January), don’t miss out!
7. Epoxy Album Release Show - 10/18
Words by Karen | Videos & Photos by Karen & Sofia
Epoxy
Balaclava
Holidays In United States - “Time Breaks Down”
This night was in celebration of Epoxy's "Civilians!” album release. The show took place at a DIY house gig in Bushwick and was absolutely packed - people were standing on cinder blocks, and photographers were climbing the walls to get the perfect shot (literally). Epoxy’s latest release features undeniable hits, with some of our favorites being “Friendship” and “Song 2.” The bill that night was stacked with some other notable acts, including Holidays In United States (who also just released a killer album!) & Balaclava, an act that notoriously brings incredible energy. Be prepared for lots of crowd surfing from both the fans and the band - it’s a wild ride.
8. Charlie Lomonaco - Bond Street Guitars 11/18
Words, Video, & Photo by Karen
“Rough Night”
Charlie’s most recent New York gig took place at Bond Street Guitars - a newly opened up spot in Brooklyn. This show was the first night of his fall tour before heading to several other states, and even up to Canada! With his fierce, raw vocals, every song packs a punch live. Charlie’s music is intense and complex, and deservedly earned a top spot on our 2025 song picks for his track “when it’s hard” (ft. P.H.F). Be sure to support Bond Street Guitars in 2026; they have some great gigs lined up - and if you’re in the market for it, they sell beautiful vintage instruments & equipment at an affordable rate.
9. Orange Label Records Showcase (Chris Olsen, Christopher Emond, Superfan) - Cassette 3/28
Words & Videos by Sofia
Christopher Emond - “Take the dead bird in the radiator out”
Superfan
Orange Label Records is an independent record label founded by artist Christopher Emond in 2019. It features smaller artists who focus on and experiment in alternative folk and electronic genres. This show started with Chris Olsen, who was definitely one of the most interesting artists I have seen all year, in the greatest way possible. His set consisted of a more experimental electronic sound. It was more of a performance, as Olsen included comedic sound-bites and commentary throughout the entire show, and even some physical comedy as well. I was so intrigued and focused during the entire set that I forgot to take a single video. Next up was Christopher Emond. This was before he released any songs from his newest album, Music from Clocks, so many of the songs he performed were off his EP Dance! Boogeyman. Then Superfan took the stage, performing songs off of Forging Seasonal Signature With My Guitar, with acoustic guitar and cello. Both Emond and Superfan take their songs to another level live, exhibiting so much passion and emotion through their voices. All of these artists and more that are on Orange Label Records are so talented, you should check out their upcoming releases and shows in 2026!
10. Jackson Sadinsky’s Birthday Bash - Unruly Collective 8/6
Words by Sofia | Photo & Video by Karen
“Spider Queen”
Jackson Sadinsky always knows how to put on a show, and this was no exception. For his birthday and last show in New York City before he moved to Atlanta, Sadinsky hosted a huge event with a 12-artist line-up of friends who have helped him out throughout his time in NYC and created community with him. Each artist brought something different to the night, ranging from rap to alternative rock to more electronic sounds, which we can’t expect anything less from him, as he himself is always experimenting with multiple genres in his music. It was an energetic night of non-stop music and community building, as we saw some friends that we’ve met at previous shows, and Sadinsky constantly told everyone through the night to talk to other people and make new friends! Sadinsky’s set, although cut a bit short, was bittersweet, as we knew we wouldn’t see him in a while, but it was still so much fun. He did promise he’d be back very soon, so be sure to catch him at a show once he does!
11. Eve Claret - Trans Pecos 11/28
Words, Video, & Photo by Karen
“mannerisms”
Eve Claret has been making great strides in the alternative scene as of late. We were lucky to catch their set at Trans Pecos last month. The dimly-lit setting gave way for an immersive experience, with their performance of the track “Mannerisms” being one of the best songs we’ve seen live this year. It is evident in their performance that they take great pride in their craft. Eve Claret’s latest release, “lace,” came out this summer and is a stunning blend of ferocious vocals, solid instrumentals, and poetic lyricism.
12. 2/14 - Grindtime Skateshop 3/20
Words, Video, & Photo by Sofia
“Crystal Ball”
2/14 is a NYC pop-punk band that Karen and I frequently see. Their show at one of our favorite local spots, Grindtime Skateshop, stood out to us out of all the shows we went to this year. They were on a bill of mostly hardcore bands that night, like Don’t Tell, Do Not Enter, Black Winter, and Kuru. The night was insane, as Grindtime was in another location at the beginning of the year that was smaller, and so many people showed up. The whole crowd couldn’t even fit inside the shop. Now, Grindtime moved across the street to a more spacious area. 2/14 played their staple songs “Crystal Ball,” “Turn This Up,” and “Escalator” with more fervor than ever. There was just something about this performance that had a lot of energy. The tight synergy from each of the band members was great. They just know how to bring spirit into a room, no matter who is there. As the new year approaches, please go see 2/14 and keep up with them for any new releases.
13. Do Not Enter - Bar Freda 9/27
Words, Video, & Photos by Karen
Do Not Enter’s Bar Freda gig is a perfect example of what the scene is all about. Tight-knit quarters allow for an up-close and personal experience, with lead singer Andrew in the pit performing amongst the mayhem. Each member is a solid musician in their own right, allowing for an undeniable fierceness when they come together. Their 2024 release, “Da Mixtape,” starts off with a remarkable opening intro and has two hard-hitting tracks thereafter.
14. Thin & Heavy Heavy Low Low - Williams Center 11/15
Words, Videos, & Photos by Karen
Thin
Heavy Heavy Low Low
Thin
Heavy Heavy Low Low
This Jersey gig brought the heat. The show was part of a run with Thin, an NYC-based mathcore band, and the legends in Heavy Heavy Low Low, who have been in the scene since the early 2000’s and have major hits under their belt, such as “Tell Shannon Her Crafts Are Ready” and “Tragic Tragic Track Jacket”. Thin’s discography is full of solid work, including their 2020 album release “Dawn,” which is flawlessly executed. This joining of talented musicians made for a night of perfect chaos, and the crowd was full of die-hard fans who gave all the energy they could, and then some.
15. PSY OPS Album Release - Trash Bridge 6/20
Words & Photos by Sofia
Full of the energy of young bands in all different alternative genres, the PSY OPS release show was definitely a success. Unfortunately, we did get there late, but we were able to catch Rivera, Sibyl Vane, Cherri Blu, and of course, PSY OPS. Each band being fem-fronted was amazing to see, as always. Sibyl Vane and Rivera had more of a grungier, shoegaze type of sound, which was beautiful to watch as the summer sun was setting. Next was PSY OPS, performing the songs off of their upcoming album (now out on all streaming platforms!) and a cover of “One Way Or Another,” drawing in the crowd to start moshing with their more punk sound. This was probably the best mosh pit I saw the entire year. Afterwards was Cherri Blu to finish off the night. They were so interactive with the crowd, giving out Minecraft creeper masks while they played a punk cover of “Revenge,” the parody song of “DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love,” and walking through the crowd and pit frequently. Another set of bands that you have to go see if you haven’t already!
