Stray The Course

Stray the Course is the only pop punk band in recorded history to feature two guitarists and lead singers with 0 tattoos or piercings. Emerging from a garage in Denver, their sound is reminiscent of early 2000s pop punk but with a modern twist. Combining shreddy lead lines, unrelenting energy, heavy chords, and gut-wrenching brutally honest lyrics, they check almost every pop punk box. Except they still haven't written a song about how much they hate their hometowns.

Their live performances are always chaotic in the best way. Expect everything from guitar solos in the crowd to band members swinging from the rafters. They consistently draw crowds of at least 10 people to venues all across Colorado like Lost Lake, Herman's Hideaway, Surfside 7, Larimer Lounge, Seventh Circle, Moon Room, Moe's BBQ, and Lion's Lair.

Fronted by Ronnie Toplyn and Steve Nelson, the pair shares guitar, singing, and songwriting duties. This gives every song a distinctly different feel. As a songwriting duo, they've been compared to Tom DeLonge and Mark Hoppus (by themselves, of course). Sterling Swanson started filling in on bass recently, and he hasn't stopped yet. Technically, we're indefinitely leasing him from another local band (certified pre-owned bassist). The rhythm section is rounded out by Mario Alvarado on the drums. He has all the talent of Travis Barker with half the tattoos.

They're on course to release a new EP in early 2024. Unless they stray from it.

FFO: Blink-182, New Found Glory, Yellowcard, Rise Against, Neck Deep, & Knuckle Puck