Persimmon is a post-hardcore band from in Raleigh, NC. Unapologetically queer and POC-fronted, they are known for their live performances that oscillate between tender and electrifying at a moment’s notice, and have shared the stage with heavy-hitters such as Michael Cera Palin, Bad Nerves, and Die Spitz. Since the release of their debut single Bait Dog in April 2023, fans have eagerly awaited a follow up. In 2026, they’ll get just that: Ad Nauseam, coming in April, is the result of setbacks, growth, and irrevocable change transfigured into cathartic release.
BANGZZ is a snarling, garage punk band based in Durham who’s sound has been described as “confrontational femme-punk that weds a Stooges stomp to five-alarm-blaze-yelps” and a “brand of punk noir” that is “all scuzzy irreverent riot girl catharsis.” The project began as the stormy brainchild of Japanese-American guitarist, Erika Kobayashi Libero, and became a live force to be reckoned with with the addition of drummer Jess Caesar. Planting firm roots in the East Coast Punk scene the band began turning heads with their campy music videos and explosive live shows while opening up for acts like Wednesday, Mannequin Pussy, Screaming Females, The Gories, Guerilla Toss, The HIRS Collective, Skating Polly, Soul Glo and more. Their new album playfully titled, “Maybe She’s Born with It, Maybe It’s a Trauma Response” is packed with another round of snarky punk punches while also digging deeper into a sludgy 90s grunge and a retro-radio charm that gives a head-banging nod to Nirvana and PJ Harvey in the same breath.
cardigan, the 22 year old hip-hop artist born and raised in the city of Raleigh, is an esteemed live performer. Their strengthened lyrical wit and sonic textures go hand-in-hand to express themes of individuality and fashion, especially brooches.
