The term “pop-punk” brings to mind obnoxious, ugly teens playing awful music; needless to say, it’s a genre I generally loathe. However, as with everything else in life, there are exceptions to the rule. The Smoking Popes were a Chicago band, distinguished by Josh Caterer’s melodic, Morrissey-like, lovelorn croon. The band disbanded when Caterer became a born again Christian, due to differences in lifestyle and musical direction. Long story short, the Popes are back and set to perform their reunion show in November. “Need You Around” is probably their most well-known song, a minor radio hit in the mid 90’s. (wow, this song brings back major high school flashbacks)

Smoking Popes - Need You Around

-David