The Get Up Kids and Smoking Popes

The Get Up Kids, formed in 1995 in Kansas City, are known for their influential emo sound with energetic punk-driven melodies. Their acclaimed 1999 album, Something to Write Home About, helped them rise to prominence. After splitting in 2005, they reunited in 2009 and released several records, including 2011's self-produced There Are Rules and 2019’s Problems. They've famously toured with bands like Green Day and collaborated with producer Peter Katis. Members have pursued side projects, like Pryor’s The New Amsterdams and Dewees with Reggie and the Full Effect.

The Smoking Popes, formed in Chicago in 1991, blended punk-pop with a lounge singer style led by Josh Caterer. Known for the hit "Need You Around," they toured with Green Day and Jimmy Eat World. After splitting in 1998, they reunited with a new drummer in 2005.