DS Show Review & Galleries: Riot Fest 2024 Day 2 featuring The Hives, The Dead Milkmen, Sincere Engineer, Descendents; and D.O.A. Chicago (09.21.2024)

Riot Fest Day 1 was hot, and Riot Fest Day 2 was even hotter. A virtual scorcher, weather-wise and musically, DS hit the photo-pits for The Hives, The Dead Milkmen, Sincere Engineer, Descendents, and D.O.A. as they tore up the stages in Chicago’s Douglass Park. You can see additional day 2 band galleries on Instagram […]

Riot Fest Day 1 was hot, and Riot Fest Day 2 was even hotter. A virtual scorcher, weather-wise and musically, DS hit the photo-pits for The Hives, The Dead Milkmen, Sincere Engineer, Descendents, and D.O.A. as they tore up the stages in Chicago’s Douglass Park. You can see additional day 2 band galleries on Instagram via hyperlinks in the corresponding paragraphs below.


One of the most eagerly anticipated sets on the second day of this year’s Riot Fest was from The Hives. The matching and sharp-dressed Swedish punks exceeded all expectations with a ferocious performance from the first note played. With various band members sporadically taking their places on the giant speakers in front of the stage and with the lead singer “Howling” Pelle Almqvist moving to sing at the barricades and above the fans, the photo pit got a bit chaotic. It was so chaotic (please note, though not out of control) that we shooters were instructed to exit just seconds into the third song. One fellow photographer joked after that if you could not get a good photo within the first minute of that set, you shouldn’t be shooting Riot Fest. Indeed, The Hives set was the epitome of the performances upon which we concert photographers thrive.

Included in the raucous set were the songs “Bogus Operandi, “”Rigor Mortis Radio,” “Walk Idiot Walk,” and “Hate To Say I Told You So.” “Countdown to the Shutdown” was the last song played by The Hives but it wasn’t the last song heard. While lots of bands have walk-on music, The Hives also has a walk-off songs. In this case, Carly Simon’s “Nobody Does It Better,” which, f.y.i., is the theme song to the 1977 James Bond film, “The Spy Who Loved Me.” Band members bowed and waved as the iconic American singer-songwriter’s voice wafted gently from the speakers. More than a few witnessing The Hives’ Riot Fest performance might argue that nobody did it better, at least not on this day.


The Dead Milkmen took the stage a few minutes ahead of time, catching us shooters and those letting us into the photo pit a bit off guard. It was all good, though, as we were given a bit more time to make up for it. The Philly outfit brought its legendary tongue firmly in cheek. The exuberant set included some of the band’s best songs, including “Serrated Edge,” “Punk Rock Girl,” “Bitchin’ Camaro,” and “Big Lizard.”

The Dead Milkmen also performed “Grandpa’s Not a Racist (He Just Voted for One),” off the band’s 2023 album Quaker City Quiet Pills. The lyrics to the song and the fact it was released just last year, make it hard not to think of a certain segment of the voting population in this election year, and of a certain 2024 Presidential Candidate.

They’re coming for his Jesus
They re coming for his gun
They’re coming for his Jesus
There coming for his gun
They’re coming for his Jesus
They’re coming for his gun
Grandpa’s not a racist – he just voted for one

Grandpa’s screaming something about white genocide
as he crawls under the bed looking for someplace to hide
He talks a lot of bullshit when he’s hittin’ the rum
But we know Grandpa’s not a racist – he just voted for one.

Last night we found Grandpa wandering the streets
Whistling Dixie and wearing a white sheet
Letting everybody know He won’t be replaced by the Jews 
and we said
“Oh, Grandpa, who could ever replace you”

Do you know a racist Grandpa?
You see one every day
He wonders why the N-word is something he’s not allowed to say
and while he’s the worst person under the sun
We all know Grandpa’s not a racist – he just voted for one.”

The Dead Milkmen set was the one I knew I would not miss at this year’s Riot Fest. I enjoyed interviewing Joe Jack Talcum and covering and documenting the band’s delightful set at House of Vans several years back. I hope to document as many more The Dead Milkmen shows as possible because I’m kind of a punk rock girl who has had the pleasure of riding in my friends’ Bitching Camaro on numerous occasions.


Sincere Engineer is most often described as a stage moniker for singer/rhythm guitar player Deanna Belos in her sole work. But it has also been described as a band, including by Belos herself on occasion. Whatever its most accurate characterization, if there indeed is one, Sincere Engineer has been a Dying Scene favorite pretty much since its debut album, Rhombithian.

Of course, one of the big reasons is Belos’ smartly charming and self-deprecating songwriting. She is unafraid to wear her often aching and/or longing heart on the short sleeves of her black Carhartt t-shirts nor is she wary of letting you know this is the case. The first song the band played “Anemia” perfectly illustrates this

I’m a walking open wound
Don’t make any sudden moves
I’m a walking open wound
It’s a pleasure to meet you

Aware of this, it is unsurprising the group’s walk-on music is the classic instrumental version of the Johnny Mandel theme from M*A*S*H*, also known by its official song name “Suicide Is Painless.”

However, the joy she and her bandmates, Kyle Geib on lead guitar, Nick Arvanitis on bass, and drummer/back-up vocals Adam Beck display whilst expressing sometimes heavy emotions is infectious.

Also included in the roaring set “Dragged Across The Finish Line,” “Corn Dog Sonnet No. 7,” “Old Coat Pocket,” and “Overbite,” among others.

Sincere Engineer is currently on the road in the western part of the United States, supporting New Found Glory’s Catalyst 20 Years Later Tour. To say this is a dream come true for Belos’ might be a bit of an understatement. Speaking to her from said road, Belos’ described to me what it has been like.

“It’s such a blast being out on tour with New Found Glory! They’re so nice, and the shows have been incredible! They were my first favorite band, so it’s been awesome to get to know them and see them every night!


Riot Fest’s regular rotations include numerous members of the “Punk Rock Docs Club” including Bad Religion’s Dr. Greg Griffin, PhD; Dr. Daryl Wilson, MD of The Bollweevils; Dr. Dexter Holland, PhD of The Offspring, and of course, The Descendents‘ Dr. Milo Auckerman, PhD. The latter two were on stage in Douglass Park this year. Dying Scene was able to hit one of those sets.

After taking the stage Guitarist Stephen Egerton gestured to its side area to give a shoutout to skateboarding legend Steve Caballero, whose own band, Urethane, also played Riot Fest 2024. The Descendents launched into its performance. The frenetic and extensive set included “The Only One,” “Silly Girl,” “Clean Sheets,” “Look Good On Paper,” “I’m The One,” and “Suburban Home.”

If the Descendents were offered an annual residency at Riot Fest, few would likely complain.


D.O.A. is still alive and killing it. The only member of the band from start to present, singer Joey “Joey Shithead” Keithley, told the audience that the band has been around for 47 years and added, “I’m in the middle of my third life sentence but don’t worry I can do the fucking stretch. I’m ok, I can do it.”

The band made a strong case for never retiring with its powerful set. Two of the highlights were blistering performances of “Smash The State,” and “The Enemy.”

D.O.A. was recently on the bill for NOFX’s final show. They have a couple of Pacific Northwest shows scheduled in November 2024, providing direct support for Duff McKagen. Check them out if you can!


As noted above, all of the DS Riot Fest galleries can also be viewed on the Dying Scene Instagram account.

Stay tuned for Day 3 coverage coming soon! Cheers!

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DS Show Review & Gallery: Sincere Engineer record release show, with The Brokedowns, and Canadian Rifle at Metro. Chicago. (12.23.2023).

Iconic music venue Metro Chicago hosted hometown hero Sincere Engineer as the band celebrated the release of their newest record, Cheap Grills. Fellow Windy City punk bands, The Brokedowns, and Canadian Rifle provided crucial support. Sincere Engineer provided cool thrills with Cheap Grills at the legendary music venue nearly adjacent to Wrigley Field. There was […]

Iconic music venue Metro Chicago hosted hometown hero Sincere Engineer as the band celebrated the release of their newest record, Cheap Grills. Fellow Windy City punk bands, The Brokedowns, and Canadian Rifle provided crucial support.


Sincere Engineer provided cool thrills with Cheap Grills at the legendary music venue nearly adjacent to Wrigley Field. There was even a quick cameo by Deanna Belo’s father Nick Belos, the star of the new record’s cover photo. Well, from the waist down, anyway. Deanna Belos described to me how her father came to be the subject of the album’s artwork,

“I found it [the photo] in a box of pictures in my parents’ basement! It’s my dad from the ’80s. The name came shortly after I found the picture, just thought it was kinda a funny pun that fit the record cover well.”

Nick Belos, clad only in pair of running shorts similar to those on the album cover, strolled calmly on stage at the start of his daughter’s set, tapped a Weber Grill placed near the drum area and walked off.

Tunes from Cheap Grills, including, “Old Coat Pocket,” “Anemia,” “Inside My Head,” “California King,” “Fireplace,” and “Landline,” made up the bulk of the setlist for Sincere Engineer’s buoyant and delightful set.

As this was a record release show, I naturally asked her to describe how the creation of Cheap Grills differed from making previous releases. Belos told me,

“This album was different because we recorded it in Massachusetts with a new producer, Mike Sapone! Had a blast doing it. All the others were done in Chicago so it was a different vibe getting away from town for 2 weeks and being kinda isolated and recording the songs.” 

As for this new year for Sincere Engineer per Belos,

Not sure what 2024 is looking like yet! I imagine more touring and stuff like that! 

Dying Scene will be there for Sincere Engineer’s 2024 “stuff.” I can’t imagine it wouldn’t be.


The Brokedowns were name-checked in Sincere Engineer’s first big hit, “Corn Dog Sonnet No 7,” in some of its closing lyrics,

So I listen to The Brokedowns
They remind me of you and I feel sorry for myself.”

But The Brokedowns, founded more than two decades ago, have built a very loyal following for a reason. The band’s own catchy and compelling lyrics set to driving music means strong and memorable songs. With a solid and tight stage presence, the quartet never fails to keep the crowds excited. This night’s set, which included, “Obey the Fumes,” and “Ernest Becker at a Costco” was a non-stop no exception.

I’m looking forward to Dying Scene covering more of The Brokedowns’ shows in 2024.


Canadian Rifle kicked off the show with a rollicking set. The band blasted through, among other tunes, “When in Doubt,” “Investments,” “Peaceful Death,” “You Are My Junk,” and “Just for You.” It was a powerful performance and the perfect start for the night.


Please check out more photos from the show! Thanks and Cheers!


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DS Review: Karina Goes To Slam Dunk (The Menzingers, Spanish Love Songs, Sincere Engineer, Bowling For Soup and more!)

Dear Diary, I’ve returned from England. And damn, let’s talk about Slam Dunk and maybe talk about some of the things that need improving for next year. But first, we should thank Slam Dunk for getting me accredited this year. It was awesome. The weather was terrific; it was sunny and bright, which many English […]

Dear Diary,

I’ve returned from England. And damn, let’s talk about Slam Dunk and maybe talk about some of the things that need improving for next year.
But first, we should thank Slam Dunk for getting me accredited this year. It was awesome. The weather was terrific; it was sunny and bright, which many English people didn’t expect – so towards the evening, as the sun was going down, there were a lot of sunburnt backs and faces. Even I, the ginger that lathers in sunblock, had a bit of red, but it disappeared. Amazing company! Okay, before I get into how I loved sharing important bands with some of my favorite people…the cell reception sucked and we lost a friend somewhere and didn’t find each other until the end of The Offspring and Enter Shikari’s set. Goddamn! But she was still there. But yes, they are amazing people to watch some of my favorite artists with and share some memories with, even on the shuttle to the afterparty. So, you know, we lost one friend, but a different team of Danes was there as well, and we also spent some of the day trying to find each other. This is ironic because we spent most of the time at the same stage. BUT, happy ending, y’all, and weird moment during Slam Dunk, we all found each other on the same shuttle bus. Friends, all ended well. As for what could be worked on for next year? Well…let’s begin our review of Slam Dunk ’23! Be ready.

Sincere Engineer

So, Sincere Engineer came up at 11:30 in Kerrang! Tent Right Stage. Zand and The Tyne played in different tents, so the crowd wasn’t huge. But it was awesome enough because those who were there were there to see Sincere Engineer in action. Like me, because let’s be honest, this band will be playing big venues in due time. So, starting with no difficulties on the stage, Sincere Engineer played a bit for everyone in those 30 minutes, which I discovered for myself wasn’t enough time. But they did manage to play the bangers, of course. The setlist included, which is not in a particular order, “Overbite,” “Fireplace,” “Trust Me” and “Corn Dog Sonnet No. 7.” They even played the new single, which I didn’t get the name of!

But overall, the best band to kick off Slam Dunk ’23 for me.

girlfriends

Hehe, my biggest guilty pleasure band was on site! And to be honest, I was super excited to see them. I might have been even more excited to interview them after their set, hear who they were excited to see at Slam Dunk, and find out if they’ll ever visit Copenhagen, Denmark. So, what did Travis Mills and Nick Gross say to me after their set? Well, we’ll get to that, but first, let us discuss their set.

And, huge thanks to my friends for watching them with me even though they aren’t fans.

Their set was good. The set list was excellent and varied, mixing their first record and newest EP. They have much energy and could’ve benefited from being placed on the Kerrang! Stage, but that’s my opinion. The fact is, they came and served. Now let’s get to the interview because that was a true highlight of my trip, and as a bonus, I’ve added a nice picture of me and the lads below. And yes, my dear DyingScene readers, I am forcing pop-punk on you.

When I asked Travis and Nick about their tour with Avril Lavigne during her EU tour, Travis said, “It was mindblowing, a dream come true, and she’s the best.” Following up with the question that they started the band two years ago, Travis corrected me and replied, “Two and a half years ago”, leading me to the following questions, what they did before this and how they met; “I had a solo project, and Nick has been in bands since he was a teenager. He played drums for one show for my solo project, and we never played music again. And then we started girlfriends.” Travis told me. I asked Nick which bands he was a part of and boy, we know him. “girlfriends, and Goldfinger” but if you google him, his CV is more impressive than mine. I complimented the chemistry between Travis and Nick, as it genuinely seems they’ve been playing together their whole lives. The boys cracked some jokes about dating, and that’s why the band is called girlfriends, and that’s fine with me.

So, who were they going to watch at Slam Dunk? Travis had the following answer when I asked: “to no surprise, it’s the homies The Maine, The Hunna, we definitely gotta watch JXDN, Sueco, we’re just trying to catch all our homies”. To my curiosity, where was the name, Charlotte Sands? Well, that’s their girl, so no doubt they would catch her set. As lovely as I am, I’m also extremely cheeky in that I may have asked if they knew who DyingScene.com was, but they didn’t. But now they did, and it’s MEEE. So I asked what they had to say to fans.
“One, thank you for listening and giving our band a chance. Two, there’s a revival going around (on the scene), as in the early days when bands had friendships and real relationships. And that’s what the scene was missing, and it’s cool to see it come back around” and while some of you readers will disagree, please remember to have a friendly tone about it. Aaaaand to end the interview in the best way possible, I hope this can give the Danish fanbase some hope for some time. I did ask if they had any plans on coming to Copenhagen – but in my defense, I didn’t ask when. But here’s what girlfriends had to say. “We must come to Copenhagen. This isn’t even a question. We must do it, Copenhagen here we come.”

Spanish Love Songs

…. Words can’t describe this set. But it’s fair to admit that I am a massive fan of Spanish Love Songs. As soon as the first note from “Routine Pain” started, I started crying. But not sad tears. Okay, both happy and sad tears, but seriously this band is fantastic.
They also played “Haunted” from their upcoming album No Joy. Eight songs played, and off the stage they went. Along with The Menzingers – but we’ll get to them, their set was probably the one that seemed like it flew by the most.

Fireworks

I may have forgotten that Fireworks also had a set and actually randomly stumbled upon them outside. So this was an impromptu show between Spanish Love Songs, interviewing girlfriends, and catching Charlotte Sands. It was a good show, and it was just a shame that the microphone seemed to be a bit too low. But overall, I didn’t leave disappointed. I’d like to see them again. And people in the crowd were talking about how they looked forward to seeing Fireworks and how they liked the album they released this year.

Charlotte Sands

“I’m throwin’ a tantrum, coming in so chaotic…” and that is precisely what she did! Okay, the sound could’ve been better. But she isn’t the sound tech, so it’s not her fault. But damn, her pipes came and conquered! When I describe her to people who haven’t heard about her, I call her Michelle Branch if MB is emo. But in reality, Charlotte Sands is much more than that. And I think her performance at Slam Dunk was good; the mistakes that happened were out of her control. But her performance is so energetic, and her talent did shine through.

The Menzingers

No hello, The Menzies come out and pop things off with “Charlie’s Army,” which is one of my favorite songs by them. And, uh, what a set. They performed the goodies like “Good Things,” “America (You’re Freaking Me Out),” “After The Party,” “Midwestern States,” “House on Fire,” oh fricking hell…they spoiled us with a new song from their upcoming album! The song was called “There’s No Place In This World For Me” and I wasn’t expecting anything new, so my head exploded! I cried a bit, but let’s face it…this wouldn’t be the last time I cried a bit during Slam Dunk. The Menzingers were flawless, but now I need that new album!

The Academy Is…

“My eyes can’t believe what they have seen…” as William Beckett jumps around like he hasn’t aged. Sure, the brown locks have a hint of grey in them. But to be honest, I’m okay with that. As a few might have read, TAI does have a special place in my heart, an inside joke between my deceased uncle and I kept going up until last year. And now I saw them, which was emotional and overwhelming at best. Sadly I didn’t return home with a TAI tattoo, but I did return home with bragging rights that I’ve shot concert pictures AND screamed along to their songs. Can we all agree that they were exceptional?! Hands down, one of the best performances on Kerrang! Left stage.

Bowling For Soup

Did you know that next year BFS turns 30? Yeah, I did not. I thought they came around in ’98, but it was ’94. Oh well! It looks like Dying Scene will again be finding its way to the UK to celebrate that anniversary.
So, what can I say about the show? It was fun! This took place at the Dickies Stage, and what a turnout it was. They played the hits and had fun on stage. I enjoyed being in the photo pit, singing along to the bangers, and dancing. Most of all, let’s be honest – this band is a bit iconic to us that grew up in the ’00s. Being from ’92, they had their fair share of love from me during my early years. So I was genuinely excited to see them (finally). As a bonus, here is a private photo of me and Jar. See you in Feb, fellas.

Yellowcard

Second time seeing Yellowcard perform live; I’ll admit that the first time wasn’t as good as this time. Maybe because it was in 2015, and those I went with weren’t big Yellowcard fans. But this band was entertaining on stage, and the photo pit was exceptionally crowded. Hence, it was hard to move around without stepping each other over the toes, meeting the hands of fans tapping your shoulder, or nearly assaulting security with the front of your camera. Okay, the last part was a joke, but honestly, having a band that size in the Kerrang! Tent was just silly planning from Slam Dunk. But oh well, it didn’t change the fact that they, once again, blew me away. Damn, I regret I didn’t get any of their merch. Let’s move on to the last bands. Yes, bands.

The Offspring / Enter Shikari

So, we weren’t allowed to take pictures of The Offspring. Hm, thanks for that, guys. But I did manage to go listen to four songs before they decided to… disappoint a little bit. Firstly, I DON’T MIND THE NEW ALBUM. But I love the old with this band; they served all the good shit at the end. Next time fellas. And please, no bloody cover songs?

But I do not like having my time wasted, so my friend and I decided to go see watch Enter Shikari was up to. And that was… Actually fun, but the volume was a bit low. And actually, can we just take a minute? This is my formal complaint.
Dear Enter Shikari, a 2023 updated version of “Sorry, You’re Not A Winner” is not acceptable. Let’s try again another day. But hell yeah, they were a party.

I’m lowkey alright about catching the first half of The Offspring and the last half of Enter Shikari. Overall they all sounded good. I had a great time. So, same time next year?

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DS Show Review & Gallery: Sincere Engineer, Fluorescents, Droughts, and Rodeo Boys (Chicago: 01.14.2023)

Sincere Engineer headlined a sold-out show at Bottom Lounge on Saturday, January 14, 2023. Supporting her on the bill were Fluorescents, Droughts, and Rodeo Boys. It was an electrifying night of music from the top of the bill to the bottom. This show was a milestone for Sincere Engineer, as Deanna Belos revealed to me: […]

Sincere Engineer headlined a sold-out show at Bottom Lounge on Saturday, January 14, 2023. Supporting her on the bill were Fluorescents, Droughts, and Rodeo Boys. It was an electrifying night of music from the top of the bill to the bottom.


This show was a milestone for Sincere Engineer, as Deanna Belos revealed to me:

“It was our first sold-out headliner that wasn’t a record release show. We actually haven’t played too many headliners here [Chicago]. I think a total of four. And two were record releases.”

Though it was sold out because of Belos aka Sincere Engineer, she still seemed taken aback that so many people showed up specifically for her. Throughout her performance, Belos kept repeating “this is crazy,” with what appeared to be a slightly nervous smile on her face. That humility, evident on stage and off, is surely another reason so many have become fans of her and why the merchandise line stretched so far across the venue floor. Belos, manning her own table, took a moment to interact with each person who approached.

This night was likely a standout not just for Belos as she was not the only one to feel the very warm embrace from the crowd. Whilst setting their gear up on stage, Adam Beck, Kyle Geib, and Nick Arvanitis surely could hear the fans shouting out their love for them. Some audience members could be heard loudly requesting the names of the trio.  

Belos’ first song of the set seemed to address the restive feelings right before taking the stage. From Bottle Lightning Twice

I got a brown paper bag

I’m breathing in and out in the back, you see?

And all the people are staring at me

Pull into the station it’s a fever dream

The crowd goes wild while I’m in the ring

Big open spaces, little train car seat

A lightweight tapped out, it seems

But I’ll be okay when I feel the electricity.

Belos’ voice, tinged with a bit of gravel, soared over the crowd. Beck’s muscular drumming in conjunction with Arvanitis’ powerful bass playing combined for a forceful rhythm section. Geib’s potent guitar playing and that of Belos’ completed the very tight quartet.

 The band also drove through “Let You Down,” “1K Rats,” “Corn Dog Sonnet No. 7,” and “Dragged Across The Finish Line.”

On this chilly night, Belos lamented, in “Out of Reach,”

I watch the weather on tv.

I watch the green on the screen cover up this stupid fuckin’ city.

And now it’s like you won’t believe.

All the things I want and need

Just seems so fuckin’ out of reach for me.


It was special evening for Belos in another way as her parents were in the audience and her mentioning them prompted cheers from the crowd. Days later, Belos excitedly told me, “It was nice having them there!! They’ve only been to a few of our shows!”

Sincere Engineer was also celebrated in another way. Bottom Lounge added the very popular corn dogs to its menu. However, Belos is not likely to be ordering one for herself. Reminder as to how the convenience food became an important part of her first big hit, Belos told me,

And it was like a time when I moved out of my parents’ house and went grocery shopping on my own for the first time. I bought a box of frozen corn dogs, and they were horrible and sat in the back of the freezer for years lol.”

Following the show, Belos again confirmed her dislike of corn dogs. This was met with raised eyebrows and exclamations of surprise from fellow musicians on the bill, and from fans waiting to meet her. It also prompted a lively discussion of how to make corn dogs more palatable (pour syrup on them was one suggestion) or possible alternative snack-on-a-stick options (Pancake on a stick!). I must also add that while I am a fan of both dogs and corn, I too am not a corn dog fan.

For those lucky enough to score tickets to the show, it left them hungry for more. Belos is in the process of ensuring the fans get it, informing me that,

Up next is recording LP3 in February, Europe tour in May! That’s it’s so far, both have been announced already!!

Sincere Engineer has also been added as a special guest opener for the July 15-22 dates on this year’s Sad Summer Fest.




Chicago’s own Fluorescents came on as bright and animated as its name suggests. This was also, thus far, the biggest crowd, for which the group comprised of Bobby Guidi, Tyler Milka, Sasquel Roby Exum, and Alex Klump, has performed.

The band lit up the stage as they zoomed through “Locked Away,” “Vibe,” “Mood,” “T.A.S.T.,” and “Funeral.”

Fluorescents have cited the pop-punk of the early-aughts as a primary influence, along with the 2010’s easy-core trend. Joining ferocious performances with terrific songs, Fluorescents will surely find itself playing for ever-growing crowds.


Droughts are also from Chicago. They consist of Joe Klomes, Nick Spiese, Will Seals, and Will C. Klomes, the latter of whom expressed his apprehensiveness at speaking in front of crowds due not knowing what to say. But he did better than I suspect he thought he did. The group jammed through “Stay Behind” “Lose Light,” “Cutouts,” “Marionette,” and “Welcome Back.” It was a strong set and hopefully the band will grace more stages this year, at home and elsewhere.


Self-described in its Facebook profile as a “Just a queer as hell four piece rippin’ grunge tunes from Lansing, MI,” Rodeo Boys lit the fuse for a blasting cap of an evening. Tiff Hannay, Cody Lee, Taylor Dody, and Dandy Waltz were clearly having a great time with their music, their fans and each other. The lively and playful set included “Dog Leg,” Be Your Man,” “Pump 6,” “Queen Anne’s Lace,” and “Tidal Wave.” In the month prior to playing at the April 2023 Stoop Fest in its hometown, the band will be heading to a fest in a state famous for rodeos. Rodeo Boys will be featured in the Don Giovanni Records Showcase at SXSW in Austin, Texas on March 16, 2023.


Please see below for more photos from this show!


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DS Interview: Hanging Out With Deanna Belos/Sincere Engineer

Deanna Belos’ nom de plume et scène is Sincere Engineer, but sincere is also a great way to describe the human behind the guitar and voice. I recently did a photo shoot with the multi-hyphenate Midwesterner (singer, songwriter, guitar player and fun provider) as we rode Chicago’s Red and Green Lines, and took over parts […]

Deanna Belos’ nom de plume et scène is Sincere Engineer, but sincere is also a great way to describe the human behind the guitar and voice.

I recently did a photo shoot with the multi-hyphenate Midwesterner (singer, songwriter, guitar player and fun provider) as we rode Chicago’s Red and Green Lines, and took over parts of some CTA train platforms post-Riot Fest. This happened just days before Sincere Engineer embarked on a European tour. We later followed up with an interview in which she describes, among other things, the experience of being on stage, her creative process, and fun. That last word serves as a sort of mission statement for the Chicago native.


Deanna Belos starting playing the guitar at age 12. Her foray into music was due to the work of those who stood out to her when she was just a kid. She tells me,

The bands I watched while I was growing up inspired me a lot.”

Belos soon discovered her favorite band, the Lawrence Arms, by way of Alkaline Trio, which she also loves. Belos is proudly from the Windy City and this is reflected through her affection for the hometown punk scene and the musicians borne out of it. So many of those who inspired her have become good friends, including the lead singers of the aforementioned bands.


The year 2022 saw Sincere Engineer promoted to one of the Riot Fest main stages. She looks as comfortable on it as she does on smaller stages in smaller venues. Her band, composed of guitarist Kyle Geib, bass player Nick Arvanitis, and Adam Beck on drums, also seems right at home on the expansive stage.

I asked her how conscious she is of the crowd and her surroundings as she performs. Belos tells me,

“I’m usually amped by the time we get on stage. But leading up to it I’m always nervous and pacing.”

Her strategy for relieving that case of nervousness?

“I always try to look at the crowd and make sure everyone’s having fun…” adding, “but I always try to look straight ahead and focus on playing.”

There was no doubt the Riot Fest crowd was having fun as evidenced by how many partook in a Corndog Circle Pit [Video by Pray AFK]. This particular circle pit was an homage to the opening track, “Corn Dog Sonnet No. 7” off of Sincere Engineer’s debut album Rhombithian. Belos joyfully relates her reaction when she noticed it happening,

“I was able to see it from the stage, yes! It was super cool. I almost teared up at it. A fan started a Facebook event to coordinate the corn dog pit and it kinda took off from there.”

“Corn Dog Sonnet No. 7” is an infectious tune but it also showcases her signature “Raw, Lonely Punk.” I am not quoting Belos there but rather a certain late legendary, comedian whose visage is inked on her leg.

It was in 2017, after Belos replied to a user called @braverygravy “Lol, maybe @NormMacDonald will listen to it.” The one-time Saturday Night Live cast member and comedy icon tweeted back: “I have. What’s not to love. Raw, Lonely Punk.”

To this day, Belos uses a screenshot of that interaction as her Facebook cover image.

It’s not hard to see why her songs and especially “Corn Dog Sonnet No. 7” hits so many, famous or not, in the heart so strongly, and somewhat painfully:

“What am I supposed to do now?
What am I supposed to do now?
When you’re still not around
And you’re all I think about


When it comes to writing songs, it’s a melding of creative methods which works best for Belos.

“I continually write lyrics just in a document, but typically I’ll play guitar and just riff til something comes to me. If nothing comes to me I’ll use some previously written lyrics and try to puzzle them together to make a song.”

Belos’ humor is often in the form of self-deprecation, and she seems about as humble as any musician I’ve met. When pressed to list some of the qualities which help make her a great musician, this is about as boastful as she gets:

I think I can write a relatable song and that helps!


As to other parts of the life of a working professional musician, Belos returns to the same three-letter word so important to her.

“Favorite [part] is watching people have fun at our shows.”

With every favorite of that life, there are challenges as well.

“Hardest…touring probably. It’s fun and rewarding but it’s a hard endurance test haha.”


When it comes to Chicago venues at the top of her list, she has two.

Metro is my favorite venue to play in Chicago! And Empty Bottle is my favorite to see a show at.”


Belos is grateful for the experiences she has had as Sincere Engineer.

“We have been so fortunate to get to play with some of our favorite bands. Playing Metro with Alkaline Trio was surreal. Riot Fest too. Hometown shows are always the most fun.”

But she is also keenly aware that not all shows are equally great. She maintains a pretty positive outlook even after such shows.

“I try not to beat myself up too much about it, but make sure to try harder next time.”


Belos, asked which musicians inspire her, returns again to two of her long-time faves with whom she is now friends.

Brendan Kelly [Lawrence Arms, The Falcon] for his songwriting and stage banter. Matt Skiba for his song writing and being cool.”


While it seems, from her current success and increasing stardom as Sincere Engineer, that it must have been a foregone conclusion Belos would become a professional musician. However, she once considered going into the medical field. “Overbite” from Rhombithian describes how she disabused herself of that notion.

“I wanna give up
I wanna give up
I don’t wanna try no more
I wanna stop all these pathetic attempts and saving this shipwreck
Swim right out the door
Before it sinks with a fraction of what’s left of my dignity
I swept so many failed tests under carpets
Deep down I knew this is not what I wanted (not what I wanted)”

Sincere Engineer’s fan base is growing exponentially and no doubt many members of it are glad Belos abandoned attempts to place the initials D.D.S. after her name.


There is one part her life Belos did felt harder to abandon.

Per Belos,

“I was an animal care technician for laboratory animals. It was a tough decision and I’m still getting used to it. It still makes me nervous!”


Returning to the subject of the tour from which Sincere Engineer just returned, Belos happily indicates, it was a success and tells me

“The tour went really well! It was super fun to visit and play in a bunch of new places.”

Belos continues,

“It started in Ireland and ended in Germany. There were stops in England, Scotland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Austria along the way.”

Such a whirlwind tour left little time for anything more than playing a set at one venue and traveling to the next city or town to perform there. She informs me,

“We did get a little time to sightsee. Not a ton. We went to the Guinness Factory in Ireland, saw the Berlin Wall stuff in Germany. The rest was mostly just doing stuff around the venues we played at.”


On this particular tour, someone especially close to Belos’ heart stepped in to help her out when one of the band members sadly had to stay back in the States. Per Belos,

“My drummer Adam [Beck] couldn’t do the tour because of work. It was nice having Jeremy [Hansen, her long-time boyfriend] there and made me feel less homesick, and he’s such a great drummer and it was an honor to play with him. He played in the band Tricky Dick in the ’90’s.”

Belos was not the only member of the band thankful Hansen could help out. Kyle Geib describes him this way,

Jeremy was such a great candidate to step in on the European tour! We all love Jeremy.”

For Hansen, it was a blast as well. He tells me,

“It was lovely! Lots of fun. Shows were good. Hangs were good. Got to do some sightseeing. Doing it together was special.”

That’s the thing about Sincere Engineer. While it may be described as a solo project, Belos’ love and admiration for her friends, who double as her band members, is obvious, as is their love for her. This all adds up to…you guessed it…fun.


Belos now has a little breathing room to just kick back and relax at home. After an exciting and seemingly exhausting year, hopefully Belos will be able to enjoy the holidays with family and friends. Once 2023 hits though, she will be back onstage. First up, headlining at Bottom Lounge on January 14. Belos reports there are a couple of other events already inked on her 2023 calendar.

“And we’re doing Slam Dunk in the UK again and SBAM festival in Austria next May/June!”

Should be fun.

In what little time off from Sincere Engineer-related activities, Deanna Belos lists her favorite activities as “Bike riding, kayaking, plants.”


Please see below for images from my recent photoshoot with Deanna Belos, on September 23, 2022, and from her set at Riot Fest on September 16, 2022 in Chicago IL.

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DS Festival Recap: Riot Fest Day One – Part One (9/16/22) w/Descendents, Lagwagon, Sincere Engineer and more

For the first time, Team Dying Scene had two photographers on the ground and in the pits in Chicago for the annual 3-Day Riot Fest. It was a blast to have another great photographer documenting RF. We both have our own perspectives. This is mine for day 1, Friday, September 16, 2022.   On the […]

For the first time, Team Dying Scene had two photographers on the ground and in the pits in Chicago for the annual 3-Day Riot Fest. It was a blast to have another great photographer documenting RF. We both have our own perspectives. This is mine for day 1, Friday, September 16, 2022.

 

On the day 1 train rides to Riot Fest, I queried those headed to Douglass Park about whom they were most looking forward to seeing play. It would have taken several pairs of hands to count how many attendees on the nearly full CTA train cars of the red and pink lines responded with Sincere Engineer. Chicago area’s Deanna Belos, performing under the stage name of Sincere Engineer, has been on a rocket ship to national stardom these past several years. It’s not hard to see why. Sincere Engineer combines infectiously great tunes with a self-effacing wit and an utterly charming stage presence. This was not her Riot Fest debut, but it was her first on one of the event’s main stages. She blasted out a set list including “Trust Me,” “Bottle Lightning Twice,” “Dragged Across The Finish Line” and of course, “Corn Dog Sonnet No.7.” That last song was the inspiration for the “Corn Dog Mosh Pit,” in which participants held up corn dogs as they slammed into each other. Back to those fans on the morning “L” rides headed to Riot Fest? Eager as they headed to Douglass Park and left Riot Fest satisfied. If Belos ever asked  “what am I supposed to do now?” I think a good response would be “pretty much whatever you want.”

Please look for an upcoming DS special feature on Sincere Engineer. 


Carolsdaughter, aka Thea Taylor, from Temecula, CA, is just a couple of months shy of her 18th birthday. However, has already witnessed her song “Violent” featured in over a quarter-million TikToks. Taylor, as Carolsdaughter, has also amassed 882.7K followers on her own TikTok channel. That’s in addition to the 183K followers on her Youtube channel. But the musician/comedian demonstrated that she is no flash-in-the-pan influencer too many often assume of young people with such large social media fan bases. Her performance at Riot Fest proved this. With an appearance recalling Gwen Stefani in her No Doubt days, Carolsdaughter utilized the entire stage, running from one corner to the next, with a few pogo jumps sprinkled in whilst belting out haunting lyrics. This included the aforementioned “Violent”: “don’t make me get violent,
I want my ring back, baby, that’s a diamond,
You don’t listen anyways, I’ll be quiet
I don’t really feel like fighting” was quite captivating.

As accomplished as she is at such a young age, it will be fun keeping an eye out for her future projects. We will be listening.


Boston Manor was founded in March 2013, in Blackpool, Lancashire, England. “Datura,” the band’s latest album is scheduled to be released on October 14, 2022, to critical acclaim. The record has thus far generated three singles, “Foxglove,” “Passenger,” and “Inertia.” As with the past Boston Manor releases, its sound is a fusion of punk, emo, dance, and electronica. The band’s Riot Fest set was intense as demonstrated through “Foxglove,” one of the above-mentioned recently released singles.

There was also a nice touch by guitar player Mikey Cunniff. Cunniff appeared on stage with a sports car yellow guitar emblazoned with Topo Chico branding and wearing a Placebo t-shirt. Placebo, one of the top billed Riot Fest 2022 artists, was forced to pull out of the festival, according to a statement the band put out, “…due to unprecedented visa and logistical issues beyond our control.” 


Taking Back Sunday, from my native land of Long Island, was back at Riot Fest after performing at the event in 2021. The band played a solid set much to the appreciation of many fans in the crowd. Those fans eagerly sang along as TBS ran through “Set Phasers to Stun,” “Timberwolves at New Jersey,” “You’re So Last Summer,” and “Flicker, Fader’.”

Taking Back Sunday, a Riot Fest semi-regular, was yet again a reliable part of the event and I’m sure this will be far from its last performance there.


The legendary Descendents kicked off their set with “Everything Sux.” Considering that the festival’s long-time slogan is “Riot Fest Sucks,” this was a great choice. Through nearly 30 songs, the Californians held their fans in sway as crowd surfing fans continually made it to the barricades before being pulled to safety by security personnel. In addition to the opening tune, Descendents also jammed through “I’m Not A Punk,” “I’m the One,” “Coffee Mug,” “When I Get Old,” “Merican,” “My Dad Sucks,” and “I Don’t’ Want to Grow Up.”

Descendents may sing about everything sucking but the band itself has never earned such a description.


San Diego’s Rocket From The Crypt has long been a fan favorite. With all members dressed in matching black attire with white trimmings, the group brought to mind a Mariachi band. Rocket From The Crypt had a common Riot Fest musical assignment: Playing one of its best albums in full, from start to finish.  In this case, it was the band’s penultimate album, 2001’s Group Sounds which features the very popular  “Savoir Faire,” and also includes “Straight American Slave,” “S.O.S,” “Carne Voodoo.” RFTC also performed “Sturdy Wrists”, “Glazed” and “Don’t Darlene “ from its second album Circa: Now!

Rocket From The Crypt members Speedo, Petey X, ND, Apollo 9, JC 2000, and Ruby Mars provided die-hard fans what they were looking for and it’s hard to imagine they didn’t pick up more than a few new fans in the process.


Yet another great band from California played, Goleta’s Lagwagon. The band’s walk-on music was Theme from “The Warriors” (composed by Barry De Vorzon) and its set sprinkled with humor as frontman Joey Cape led Lagwagon through a set which included “After You My Friend”, “Falling Apart,” “Wind in Your Sail,” “Island of Shame,” “Razor Burn.”

Many fans at the very front wore Lagwagon attire and appeared ecstatic that their time waiting, often crushed up against the metal barricades, paid off with an experience they’ll remember for years. 


Chicago’s own Alkaline Trio matched Lagwagon and perhaps even superseded them with choice of walk-on music. This time it was a tune that had stage and security personnel, the fans, and yes even us photographer singing in hearty unison. The tune which provoked this sunshiny moment in the darkness of just past the gloaming? One of the biggest hits by the legends (and Riot Fest alums) from just 85 miles west-northwest past Chicago. Of course the tune was “Surrender” by Cheap Trick. It was glorious.

Once on stage Alkaline Trio blazed through a set which included “Time to Waste,”  “Calling all Skeletons,” “Sadie,” “Fatally Yours,” “Bleeder,” and “Radio.” 

Matt Skiba, Dan Andriano and Derek Grant also had a couple of dedications to gift. 

“How about a love song? How about a love song for Chicago? Tonight. Another one” proposed guitarist/vocalist Skiba as he introduced “Every Thugs Needs a Lady,” on which bassist/vocalist Andriano took the lead vocals. The conclusion of the song led to this delightful (partial) exchange between Skiba and Andriano as drummer Derek Grant sat back took it in:

Skiba “That, that was a 9 and a half.” 

Andriano “Thanks buddy… see I’m getting better.”

Skiba: “I would have given you a ten I just don’t want you getting cocky on me right?”

Andriano: “I can’t be reading my clippings” …”…I get a little confidence boost though with that, thank you Matt”

Skiba: “…No problem bro.”

This was immediately followed by Skiba declaring “This song’s for the Descendents, it’s called “Mercy Me.”

Alkaline Trio capped an enjoyable day 1 for Dying Scene correspondents.


Coverage of days 2 and 3 coming soon. See below for more day 1 photos.


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