A collection of upbeat pop punk gems (or “emo bops,” as I like to call them), perfect for your next party of one.
If you’re anything like me, your music taste can be finicky. I’m constantly creating playlists and sub-playlists to match every little musical mood I have, from the times I want to sing and dance, to the melodies I want to fall asleep to. Lately, I’ve found myself wanting to jam out to pop-influenced anthems that still have a little bit of edge and emotion to them. So without further ado, here are 10 bops with some bite that’ll make you dance like no one is watching:
1. Waterparks – Rare
The playlist starts off strong with a powerful jam by eclectic Texas trio Waterparks. With its head-bopping melodies, scream-worthy chorus, and lovestruck lyrics, this tune is guaranteed to pick you up at the end of a long day.
You like? You’ll like: Gloom Boys, Telephone, Sleep Alone
2. The Wrecks – Favorite Liar
This lively track by indie 5-piece The Wrecks pulls listeners in with its catchy single guitar intro, keeps us engaged with high-spirited drum beats, and provides a satisfying payoff with its entertaining bridge breakdown. Frontman Nick Anderson’s vocals play a shining part in the memorability of this song, and his raw, unpolished screams infuse the track with personality.
You like? You’ll like: Freaking Out, Way With Words, Turn It Up
3. As It Is – Pretty Little Distance
With its infectious guitar riffs, fun group vocal, and energetic instrumental break, this bright tune is sure to get you moving. The high school dance setting was a perfect choice for the music video because, at its core, this song is a catchy catalyst for the good (but unpredictable) times we share with great friends, singing loud, dancing enthusiastically, and laughing hard.
You like? You’ll like: Until I Return, Dial Tones, Hey Rachel
4. Every Avenue – Mindset
A pop rock party bop, this feelgood tune will transport you back to those carefree summer festivals, long drives, and wild adventures, even in the middle of quarantine. The easy-to-learn chorus is sure to stick in your head and have you dancing around the house in your socks, yelling about an incredible girl you’ve never met.
You like? You’ll like: Tell Me I’m a Wreck, Tie Me Down, Picture Perfect
5. Makeout – Home
Makeout’s first single since the addition of vocalist Kyle Dee features a powerful mix of bold electric guitar, upbeat drums, and compelling lyrics. The catchy vocal run in the chorus is one you’ll want to yell out your car window, much to the confusion of the strangers you’re driving next to.
You like? You’ll like: Crazy, Childish, Lisa
6. ROAM – Playing Fiction
This active track by British rock band Roam is reminiscent of early 2000s punk classics, with a fresh, late-2010s spin. “Playing Fiction” comes in fast and free, and it maintains that energy as it soars through driving verses and powerful choruses.
You like? You’ll like: Better in Than Out, Home, Tell Me
7. Jonathan Young – Every Time We Touch
YouTuber Jonathan Young is well known for his creative rock covers of popular songs spanning all different genres of music. His heavier spin on Cascada’s 2007 pop hit preserves the original lively danceability of the song, while adding a unique flair that gives it new significance to alt rock fans everywhere.
You like? You’ll like: Eye to Eye, Mr. Brightside, Immortals
8. Set It Off – Different Songs
This poppy tune from Set It Off’s most recent release showcases the lighter side of the band’s diverse musical range. The soft intro quickly crescendos into a dancey groove that carries through the captivating, upbeat track.
You like? You’ll like: Hourglass, Bad Guy, Go to Bed Angry
9. The Maine – Listen to Your Heart
This throwback jam by longtime alt favorites The Maine brings us back to a simpler time: 2010. This fast-paced anthem will have you belting out the lyrics like a teenager again, wrapped up in the angst and elation of young love that defies all odds.
You like? You’ll like: Everything I Ask For, Don’t Come Down, Bad Behavior
10. Grayscale – Baby Blue
We finish off this playlist with a funky fan-favorite from Grayscale’s third album, Nella Vita. While the poppy groove and transformative prechorus will make you want to get up and move, the subject matter of grieving relationships is sure to satisfy your emo craving as well. And if you like this version, check out Grayscale’s remastered version, from their new EP Live From the Barber Shop Studios.
You like? You’ll like: In My Arms, Desert Queen, If I Ever See You Again
Like what you heard? Check out the Spotify playlist below:
Which of these bops is your favorite? What songs do you like to dance to? Share down below!
Pure Punk Media 