Part 9: Parsing Through Proto-Revival to Bridge the Gap

Today we are covering Emo Proto-Revival. Now, just what in the Hell is that? To be honest, I don’t actually know. It’s a term thrown around to describe pre-Emo Revival bands that have a similar sound, a great influence on the Revival itself, feature Revival band members in older projects, or otherwise just sound like they could be Emo Revival albums yet predate them. There’s naturally going to be some crossover with the Carrying the Second Wave section, given their goals of emulating the OG Midwest Emo sound. However, Proto-Revival usually has something more “modern” to set it apart, whether in production or in genre integrations. Math Rock in particular was a popular ingredient in the concoction for many of these bands, leading to the popularity of Math Rock influence in Fourth Wave Emo.

Thank the Kinsellas for this section. Their influence from bands like Cap 'N Jazz and American Football cannot be overstated, especially as you listen to the music in this section.

Colossal - Brave The Elements (1/13/2003)

Admittedly, I could have put Colossal’s LP in this section as well and perhaps should have. However, I wanted to highlight just how unique their 2004 album was, even among other Proto-Revival releases. Their debut EP, on the other hand, is a bit more in line with what you’d imagine a Proto-Revival release would sound like: gorgeous guitar twinkles, fluctuating volume dynamics, strong trumpet presence and overall less Jazzy than their later work. However you characterize this band’s sound, you owe it to yourself as a fan of Emo to give them a listen, even if I’d be lying by saying there was any “Proto-Revival” when the genre’s dirt was still fresh.

Dugong - Hat Danko (9/1/2003)

This sounds like classic 90s Midwest Emo mixed with British Indie and a small sense of Emo-Pop. This is somewhere between Proto-Revival and Keeping the Second Wave Alive.

Up Up Down Down Left Right Left Right B A Start - Perris, CA (9/16/2003)

Up Up Down Down Left Right Left Right B A Start - And Nothing is #1 (9/23/2003)

How can I possibly categorize this release? Though the band was technically formed at the tail-end of the Second Wave, they did release a few songs pre-2003. Perhaps this means I should have put them in Part 1 of this series, either as a Second Wave Band or one strongly influenced by that sound. Regardless, Up Up Down Down is commonly (as common as this obscure band can be) referred to as a Proto-Revival sound and a small but profound influence on upcoming Emo Revivalists. Primitive twinkles can be found in the guitar playing while all of the good ol’ Midwest Emo elements are here. Uncommon time signatures and switches can also be heard by the discerning ear.

In addition to the pre-Third Wave releases, this band also came out with several EPs during this time period. Perhaps the best one would be released four years later…

Andy, Glenn & Ritch - Escape From the Bastille (2/1/2004)

Twinkly Math-Rock goodness with lots of Midwest Emo sensibilities.

Tamiroff - Bittersweet and Strange (2004)

Surprised to see them here? Faithful followers of this series will note that Tamiroff came out with their Demo in 2004, a Midwest Screamo affair. However, this band’s extremely limited discography is a microcosm of the influence of that particular subgenre as they found themselves coming out with an early Proto-Revival EP! Admittedly, I don’t know which record actually released first, but I’m willing to believe it was their demo.

There's the odd 2000s Post-Hardcore section here and there between the crashes and waves of Math Rock-laden Midwest Emo. This release accentuates the positives of traditional Midwest Emo, previews the future of the genre with twinkly Math Rock influences and showcases the Post-Hardcore tendencies that would lead into Polar Bear Club.

Up Up Down Down Left Right Left Right B A Start - The Internet EP (1/7/2005)

Special Noise - Special Noise (1/8/2005)

A noisy and dissonant take on Proto-Revival Emo, Special Noise enters with a guitarist who has actually experimented with his guitar's lower three strings, utilizing cool Mathy riffs without relying on the genre’s ever-present twinkles. The basement aesthetics are strong with this release, but that says nothing of each song’s individual quality. The band would come out with another EP in 2008 before calling it quits.

Everybell and Whistle - Everybody Wrestle (2/1/2005)

Recorded at an ill Nate Kinsella's commune warehouse space in Chicago with a makeshift drum kit and a guitar passed through two different amps to act as a bass, this record exemplifies the DIY spirit of Midwest Emo, especially during the early Revival and Proto-Revival period. The production values reflect the DIY recording approach to a tee, but that says nothing of the excellent musical quality found within the record.

Feeding off 90s Midwest Emo as much as Kinsella projects like Joan of Arc, the jangly riffs, volume dynamics and Hardcore kid-clean vocals define this 20+ minute aural jaunt.

Decmebers Architects - ,Apiary Ennui and Curiosas. The Brew Shakes (8/13/2005)

Forget ambition, what Nate Kinsella and Co were attempting with this album is nothing short of visionary, even if the towering heights they aimed for weren’t quite reached. Although this album was released in 2005, the LP was the final recording of this late 90s Midwest Emo project from 2001. Naturally, the guitar tones are quite gritty, matching the aesthetic of late Second Wave Emo. However, the experimentation here goes beyond what most Emo bands would call “experimentation,” including instruments like the turntable!

The Math Rock twinkles are there as expected, juxtaposed by harsh guitars, weird noises and interesting song structures. Even though this may not technically be Proto-Revival, it will be appreciated by anyone into that sound.

Saleontomorrow - Demo (2005)

Only three tracks in length, this release further cements the 00s British Emo scene as one of the most underrated. Saleontomorrow’s demo is slightly rough around the edges, but the cool Mathy song structures, impressive lead guitar riffs and careless vocals make for a breezy listen. Make sure you check out their compilation of unfinished songs as well.

Polara - Tempestade bipolar (2005)

Tonally, the band is reminiscent of Colossal, which seems to make sense as they were active at the same time, but they were separated by over 5,000 miles (almost 8,500 km) on different hemispheres! This could not have been possible without drawing from the same well of influence in old school Emo.

Polara executes quite differently from Colossal, keeping the riffs simpler and injecting a dose of lighthearted Indie into the concoction. The occasional hint of 90s Post-Hardcore pops up to give the music some weight. These Brazilians definitely did Emo proud with this release.

Cowboys Aren't Indians - Cowboys Aren't Indians (2005)

Diamonds in the rough from Utah, the horribly named Cowboys Aren't Indians played chill yet active music in the Math Rock vein with Midwest Emo as a guide. The music tends to move by at a brisk pace thanks to the masterful and quirky guitar playing, the muted explosiveness of the drummer and the frankness of the vocalist.

With lofi production values and an emphasis on vocal-less sections of music, there almost seems to be a Post-Rock influence tucked away in there somewhere. After some years of inactivity, the band would release another EP in 2010. It seems the band was just at the wrong place at the wrong time to gain much notoriety.

oh my god elephant - oh my god elephant (2/1/2006)

Had oh my god elephant released this EP in 2010 with slightly better production values, you’d be bombarded with this release on every hidden gem of the Emo Revival list out there. Instead, we received this masterful yet subdued Midwest Emo EP in 2006 with almost zero attention given. Although Emo was about as popular as it ever would be in 2006, basement-style Midwest Emo like this was completely out of vogue.

The band impressively fuses the Indie-leaning Emo sound of the late 90s with soft, mathy guitar riffs that keep the otherwise relatively slow music fairly lively. Whiny vocals and somewhat absurdist lyrics may turn off some listeners, but Emo Revival fans will greatly enjoy this effort.

The One Up Downstairs - The One Up Downstairs (4/25/2006)

Ok, calling this Proto-Revival would be disingenuous, even though it seemingly fits the bill with a 2006 release date. However, this is a Mike Kinsella project that predates even American Football! Proto-Proto Revival? I don't know, but this is the best place to put this for now.

These three tracks were recorded in 1997 but didn't see the light of day until almost a decade later. Though reminiscent of AF, the songs are slightly more upbeat in comparison, especially Rememories. If you like jazzier Emo or just want to check this intriguing release for its novelty, it's worth at least one spin.

Street Smart Cyclist - Demo 2006! (12/1/2006) 💎

SSC's legacy upon Emo history will never be appreciated enough. With only eight songs to their name spread across less than two years of activity, band members would go on to create Snowing and Boy Problems, two extremely influential Revival bands in their own right.

On this first three-song EP, the band shows off their immense musical talents with Hardcore-leaning Midwest Emo mixed with scathing Math Rock sensibilities. Production values are intentionally harsh, adding to the noisiness and musical chaos. The guitar and rhythm instruments are played with equal parts passion and complexity.

Pirouette - Sometimes Sad Isn’t Funny (2006)

Unexpectedly catchy, free-flowing and noodly, Pirouette’s debut EP displays the Proto-Revival sound exactly like you’d expect it. The guitarist, of course, is one of the great highlights of this release, utilizing a proficient mix of fun chord progressions and jangly guitar riffs. Although the vocal performance isn’t the cleanest, the vocal melodies in these songs are excellent and will worm their way into your ears and your heart.

The band was only around between 2006-2008, just in time to miss their signature sound exploding in the scene. They would come out with two more EPs, both excellent in their own right, and an almost-acoustic LP.

Ryerose - Ryerose (2006) (See Also: Part 2)

A release filled to the brim with such passion that it could rival Penfold, Ryerose is the brainchild of Craig Woods and, who else, Peter Helmis. Unlike the youthful explosiveness found in much of Helmis’ other work, Woods really seems to ground him with this melancholic, layered guitar approach. Vocals are also handled primarily by Woods, who sings similarly to other bands like Benton Falls or Mineral.

You can hear every ounce of blood, sweat and tears that was put into this project, featuring brilliant twinkles and disparate volume dynamics. This release might just be the best of a surprisingly robust discography from Helmis in 2006.

Up Up Down Down Left Right Left Right B A Start - Worst Band Name Ever (5/15/2007)

The band's final album reflects their playful attitude toward Emo while simultaneously taking Emo music seriously. Utilizing more acoustic guitars than their first LP, the Math Rock influence is a bit more subtle but nonetheless quite present. Keen ears will hear all of the sly musical techniques the band makes use of on this very short 20 minute album.
This band exemplifies the Proto-Revival to a tee: a band with all the talent in the world and forward-thinking (ironically by looking back), only to be at the wrong place at the wrong time. This exact album could have made them them Emo legends in 2010.

Marquette - Waxing / Waning (5/29/2007)

After releasing a so-so EP in 2006, true Midwest Emo band Marquette would release this EP a year later and it is as serene as it is rough around the edges. Utilizing decent but definitely DIY production techniques, Waxing / Waning is filled to the brim with some of the coolest guitar playing in this entire wave. Although the vocal performance is more than serviceable, the sheer focus on extended instrumental passages, led by near-virtuosic dual guitar lines, showcases the true star of the show.

The band would fold after this release, but from the ashes, a couple of the ex-bandmates would start the underrated Emo Revival band Penpal. Though similar in style, the Slowcore and American Football influence was far more pronounced.

Avast! - Faultlines (6/1/2007)

Avast! was a Scottish Emo band that only existed for a short time in the mid aughts. However, we can hear the infamous British Indie influence on this, no matter how hard they tried to hide it; unlike Dartz!, TTNG and the like, Avast!’s Faultlines harken back to more classic Midwest Emo, even if it’s with a slightly more modern approach. This is the band’s sole release, but I’d recommend it to anyone who is interested in the description.

Look Mexico - This Is Animal Music (7/20/2007)

I don't know what kind of Animals they have in Florida, but it sounds remarkably close to some Chicagoland Emos from the mid to late 90s. Look Mexico’s debut album has Kinsella fingerprints all over it, from the twinkly riffs to that very specific late 90s Indie Rock x Midwest Emo timbre. The vocals are of course of a whiny nature, though all is produced and mastered quite well.

Unlike many other Proto-Revival artists on this list, Look Mexico continued releasing music until 2016, the end of the Revival. Unfortunately, they pivoted to a more Indie-leaning sound while eschewing the Emo influence. Had their music remained American Football-inspired, this band could be legendary in the scene.

Meet Me in St. Louis - Variations on Swing (9/24/2007)

If I’m being honest, this isn’t actually Emo Proto-Revival. In reality, this is a calculated mix of Post-Hardcore, Math Rock and Midwest Emo with ample Kinsella influences. Look, Proto-Revival wasn’t really a scene, it was just a bunch of disconnected bands taking influence from the same people at the same time, hoping to make awesome music. It just so happened that this led to the Emo Revival, but I think Meet Me in St. Louis exhibits enough Emo sensibilities on this record to make it on this list - much like fellow UK Post-Hardcore band Million Dead.

Ambitious guitar riffs, song structures, tempo shifts and time signature changes are sprawled across the varied musical landscapes found on this LP. The Midwest Emo elements help weave together the more elaborate and lofty techniques and influences here. Even if it doesn’t fit in with this section exactly, it’s more than worth a listen.

Street Smart Cyclist - Lint Traps (2007)

SSC employs a similar songwriting style to their first EP, though these three tracks are all acoustic and feature significantly less percussion. Galm's singing is still as off-kilter as ever, though reduced in aggression. It's unclear if these songs were always intended to be acoustic or if they were previewing a more traditional song to be released later, such as We Lack Science. An offbeat experimental release for sure, it should be heard at least once.

oh my god elephant - Fancy Cookies (2007) 💎

Prior to this album’s release, the band temporarily changed their name to Rainow Tornado, and boy does this album feel like one. From production to songwriting to instrumental virtuosity, this album trumps their 2006 EP in just about every way (save for personal taste) while somehow being significantly more obscure, quite the feat considering how unpopular their s/t EP is. Lengthy instrumental passages litter this record, putting you into a near-meditative state. This peacefulness is juxtaposed with the silliest, most irrational lyrical moments in Emo.

This album could very well be the logical extreme to the American Football sound, given the unremarkable but confessional vocals, spirited Math Rock riffs and overall lackadaisical pace. The band does well to step out from merely being a Kinsella clone, though, and this album is their magnum opus.

Pennines - Demo Feb 08 (2/1/2008)

From the UK Emo scene that brought bands like TTNG and saleontomorrow, Pennines is a Mathy Midwest Emo band that isn’t afraid to get playful with their songs. This demo is only two songs but shows the tremendous promise that the band possessed with the Indie guitar riffs, mathy twinkles and signature British Indie singing voice. If you like the Math Pop-influenced Midwest Emo scene of mid-late 00s UK, check these guys out! They have some later-released demos and a split with TTNG.

Good Luck - Into Lake Griffy (5/18/2008)

Into Lake Griffy is the expert result of merging hyper-energetic Pop-Punk with Math-infused Indie-leaning Midwest Emo. The first thing you'll notice is the neverending guitar riffage and blistering chord progressions, followed up by some of the catchiest vocals this side of the Third Wave. The drummer and bassist both manage to stand out distinctly in their own right, essentially acting as the backbone for the Midwest Emo volume elements.

At 13 songs and almost 40 minutes of length, this album will breeze by and no two songs will sound too similar. The band would release one more album in 2011, though it was more restrained than this record.

Little Lungs - Hoist Me Up! (8/1/2008)

Cute, catchy and mixed with obvious Pop-Punk influence, this fun and breezy EP features infectious female vocals, driving yet straightforward melodies and riffs, and the odd Math Rock element hanging around here and there. What else is there to say? At 12 minutes, this one deserves at least one listen.

Gentlemen - Demo (8/24/2008)

Featuring a few members of The Summer We Went West, Gentlemen’s sole release is a demo from 2008. This is Midwest Emo in the classic vein with a few Proto-Revival trappings. With nine songs and a total runtime of less than 20 minutes, this demo is worth a listen. Gentlemen had the potential to be a really cool Emo Revival band, but they stopped just short of the goal line.

It’s an Icicle - L’Chaim (12/16/2008)

Emos out of Fresno, whose music scene was on fire during the late 2000s, It’s an Icicle emerged from the burgeoning Mathy Midwest Emo movement, citing Algernon Cadwallader, other Kinsella projects and Math Rock bands like Giraffes? Giraffes! as their primary inspiration. With dingey production, constant riffing and complete formlessness, the band’s debut LP is a sign of the changing times where DIY Emo artists were forming the core sounds of the Emo Revival.

Before becoming a three-piece, the band released a couple of EPs as a duo. Though not quite as good as this album, they’re both super solid Emo releases in their own right.

Bad Times Ending - Bad Times Ending (2008)

Extraordinarily obscure Proto-Revival, I can only find one record of their existence and it’s the YouTube video where you can hear it. Not much to say at only 17 minutes, but you’ll immediately notice the twinkling of the guitar, the sincerity of the vocals and the pretty good grasp on volume dynamics.

Street Smart Cyclist - Final Mixes (2008) 💎

The final two songs of the band’s discography are an evolution of the tracks from their demo; the boys supercharge their Midwest Emo / Math Rock hybrid, sounding like hardcore kids playing freestyle Jazz. The riffs are twinklier and more intricate, the song structures are looser. Had the band stuck around, who knows how good their output could have been.

Proto-Revival to the core, they, directly and indirectly, shaped the upcoming Revival while having a unique sound all their own. The best way to hear the band's stuff is to listen to their Discography, released in a neat package in 2014.

Instruments (Make Music) - Instruments (Make Music) (2008)

A band name so unsearchable that I am only 70% sure it even came out in 2008, the burgeoning UK Midwest Emo scene produces more Mathy goodness with this EP. It's a little quirky and littered with instrumental-only sections, but it fits in well with other similar releases from this time and place. If you like cool Math Rock riffs, look no further.