OurSpace with Matt Vettese

Five years after their debut, Good Sleepy are back with their sophomore LP Constant Humming and it might be their most cohesive, mature, and emotionally honest record yet. In this episode of Ourspace, Matt sits down with Seth, Thomas, and Jack to talk about growing up between albums, moving beyond being a “high school band,” and what changed in their songwriting process this time around.

Goodnight Moon are back! Nearly 20 years after emerging from the South Florida DIY emo and post-hardcore scene, the band has reunited to re-record their early 2000s material, revisiting the songs that they wrote as teenagers and reimagining them with the perspective of adulthood. In this episode of OurSpace, we sit down with JB, Corey, and Rob of Goodnight Moon to talk about: The Florida emo scene in the early 2000s Playing shows with bands like Taking Back Sunday and Bayside Why they chose to re-record their original material Growing up in the Warped Tour era Whether emo nostalgia is becoming the millennial version of 80s night Losing music in the MySpace reset Vocal surgery, second chances, and what “being back” really means We also dive into the resurgence of guitar-driven music, the evolution of the scene, and how technology has changed what it means to be in a band in 2026. If you grew up feeling like an outsider and found your community through emo, pop punk, and post-hardcore, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of Ourspace, Matt sits down with rising emo rap artist $KIN UP to talk about the intersection of rap, emo, and alternative music, and why the genre lines blend so well.

In this episode of Ourspace, Matt Vettese sits down with Demi The Daredevil for a raw, vulnerable conversation about emo music, trauma, grief, authenticity, and building real connection in an algorithm-driven world. Demi opens up about his journey as an independent artist, the pain that shaped his music, and why he believes much of today's content feels like the “McDonald's of music.” The conversation explores how honest, emotionally-driven art stands the test of time, while trend-chasing fades away. We also dive deep into Demi's latest EP Vanishing Point, including the emotional weight behind the song “Blackbird,” written about the loss of his best friend and bandmate. Demi shares how grief, mental health, and vulnerability fuel his songwriting and why emo music continues to be a lifeline for people who feel alone.

In this episode of OurSpace with Matt Vettese, I sit down with Better Hell for a wide-ranging conversation about building real community, modern emo culture, content creation, and the band's upcoming music. We talk about the state of the emo and alternative scene today, what feels oversaturated, what still feels exciting, and why genuine contribution matters more than chasing trends. Better Hell share their philosophy on creating meaningful content, supporting new bands, and keeping scenes alive instead of turning them into memes. The conversation also dives deep into community-building. We break down why authenticity, real conversations, and “being a good hang” matter more than aggressive self-promotion, and how those values translate directly into building a fanbase for a band. On the music side, Better Hell talk about: • Their sound blending alternative rock, emo, post-hardcore, and melodic hardcore • Collaborating with Aaron Gillespie (Underoath) on their first releases • Drawing influence from bands like Movements, Title Fight, Citizen, Anxious, Thrice, and Commonwealth • Writing without chasing a specific genre or trend • Why collaboration matters more than protecting ego in songwriting • What to expect from upcoming singles and a future EP • Playing shows with Secrets and plans for 2026 festivals and touring If you're into emo revival, alternative rock, post-hardcore, DIY community-building, or learning how bands grow authentically in today's music landscape, this is a must-watch/listen conversation.

In this episode of OurSpace, I sit down with Ben Quad to talk about their new album Wisher, the evolution of their sound, and why they refuse to stay boxed into one genre. We get into the band's journey from DIY emo roots to a more polished, post-hardcore–influenced sound, the discourse around their heavier Ephemera EP, and how early 2000s bands like Underoath, Taking Back Sunday, Motion City Soundtrack, and third-wave emo shaped Wisher. Ben Quad break down their songwriting process, working with producer John Markson, recording at a farm studio in New Jersey, and how leaning into honest, vulnerable lyrics led to some of their strongest songs yet.

In this episode of OurSpace with Matt Vettese, I'm joined once again by Steph and Paul O'Sullivan of Greywind, marking their return to the show for a deeper, more reflective conversation about escapism, grief, mental health, and their upcoming record. We dive into Greywind's single “Make Believe (Love Me)”, the concept behind their upcoming album Severed Heart City, and why the band intentionally creates live shows as a place of escape and healing, rather than bringing the weight of the outside world onto the stage. Steph and Paul open up about the idea of performing as an alter ego, “fake it till you make it,” and how confidence on stage can inspire fans, especially young women, to feel powerful and seen. This conversation also explores: • Writing “sad songs that sound happy” • Using music as therapy and processing grief through songwriting • The meaning behind recurring themes of death and loss in Greywind's music • How their uncle's passing shaped the band's origin and emotional honesty • Why Severed Heart City is a place where it's okay to be sad, but not stuck • The story behind tracks like “Coping the Coma,” “Moon,” and “I Kill All My Friends” • Balancing dark subject matter with hope, catharsis, and connection • Building a long-term artistic world and lore across records • Staying true to their sound while evolving into pop-punk and emo night anthems Steph and Paul also talk about being dropped by labels, learning resilience, developing thicker skin in the music industry, and why believing in yourself matters more than external validation. We close by discussing touring plans, fan connection, and where Greywind wants to play next, including a strong love for Canada! If you're into emo, alternative rock, pop punk, emotionally honest songwriting, or bands that turn pain into community, this is a must-watch conversation.

In this episode of OurSpace with Matt Vettese, I sit down with Charlie Kerr, frontman of Hotel Mira, actor, and playwright, for a deeply honest conversation about vulnerability, shame, success, and connection. We dive into Hotel Mira's new EP The Afterparty, how it continues the themes introduced on Pity Party, and why emotional honesty has become the band's defining strength. Charlie opens up about writing songs where he often positions himself as the villain, the importance of feeling seen and heard, and how shame, when explored openly, can actually bring people together. We also talk about how his background in acting influences his performances, why playing live feels like theater, and how the band's onstage energy gives fans permission to fully express themselves.

In this episode of OurSpace with Matt Vettese, I sit down with Dylan Espeseth, an up-and-coming alternative/emo artist with over 500,000 monthly Spotify listeners, to talk about his upcoming debut album, his creative journey, and the emotional weight behind his music. We dive into Dylan's influences, from Dashboard Confessional, Motion City Soundtrack, and Saves the Day, to folk, Midwest emo, and even emo rap, and how those sounds came together to shape his evolving style. Dylan opens up about writing his breakout song “Circles,” dealing with burnout and isolation during the pandemic, and how learning production completely changed his songwriting process. We also talk about: • Opening for The Rocket Summer and what he learned from watching a veteran emo act • Going from acoustic GarageBand demos to a full-band album • Writing deeply personal songs, including love songs, and the vulnerability behind them • The pressure of releasing a debut full-length record • Finding authenticity instead of chasing “hits” • Why emo music is about honesty, not negativity • The artists he's listening to right now If you're into emo revival, alternative rock, Midwest emo, or heartfelt songwriting, this is a must-watch conversation.

HUDDY joins me for an honest and unfiltered conversation about his new era, the story behind “Burn The Ballroom Down,” and what it was like collaborating with Vic Fuentes of Pierce the Veil. We dive deep into his creative process, the emotional weight behind his upcoming music, and the real struggles artists face behind the scenes. Huddy opens up about the darker side of the music industry, the pressure to constantly evolve, mental health, and why this next chapter of his career is the most authentic he's ever felt. We also talk about transitioning from social media fame into becoming a serious alternative artist, how he's pushing his sound forward, and what fans can expect from him in 2025. If you love Pierce the Veil, alt-rock, emo-pop, or Huddy's new direction, you'll want to catch the full interview.

Bailey Spinn has taken over TikTok with 15M followers but her pivot into music is where things get REALLY interesting. In this episode, Bailey opens up about: • Getting humbled by early hate & using it to level up her vocals • Breaking out of the “TikToker” box and proving herself as a real artist • Her love for Paramore, Evanescence, Poppy, and nu-metal • Her new darker era, her heaviest music yet, and what fans can expect in 2026 & more. If you're into the new wave of heavy female-fronted rock, this is a must-listen.

In this episode of OurSpace with Matt Vettese, I sit down with Halifax emo band Customer Service to talk all about their new EP If You're Here, You Must Be Fine. We dig into their place in the growing Halifax music scene, and how 90s emo influences shaped their sound. We also dive into the meaning behind the new EP, the band's evolution beyond breakup songs, and why the East Coast might secretly have the strongest scene in Canada right now. If you're into emo, indie rock, Canadian punk, or Halifax bands, this one's for you.

House & Home talk their new album I Won't Look For You, writing on the road, and levelling up their sound in this interview with OurSpace. Pat breaks down how the band approached their sophomore record, what changed in their writing process, and why this album feels louder, heavier, and more honest than anything they've done before. We also get into touring life, balancing relationships, and finding confidence as a band in your late 20s. If you're a fan of modern emo, alt-rock, post-hardcore, or bands like Hot Mulligan, Movements, or Citizen, you'll love this conversation. Topics Covered: • The making of I Won't Look For You • Writing vocals and finding the album's identity • Creating on tour for the first time • Working with producer Will Beasley • Growing up, balancing life and music • What makes House & Home different on this record

Collin Hanes from Bearings joins OurSpace to talk all about the band's brand-new album Comfort Company (out November 7). We dig into what makes this record their most natural-sounding yet, how the songwriting process has evolved, and why embracing imperfection gave the album its character. We also chat about getting older in the scene, the Menzingers' influence, and how Derrick from State Champs ended up on the track “Float Away.” If you're into emo, alt rock, or pop punk that grows up without losing its heart, you'll love this conversation. ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 01:15 – Writing Comfort Company across Canada and LA 06:40 – The meaning behind the album title 10:25 – Why this record feels more raw and natural 15:55 – Turning 30 and the nostalgia that comes with it 21:10 – How “Float Away” came together with Derrick from State Champs 27:45 – The Menzingers influence and embracing realism 33:20 – Room 21 Studios and the making of the record 38:00 – What's next for Bearings Keywords: Bearings interview, Bearings Comfort Company, Bearings 2025, pop punk 2025, Canadian pop punk, emo rock, OurSpace Media, Bearings band, Bearings Float Away, State Champs feature, alternative music interview.

Rody Walker from Protest the Hero joins OurSpace to chat all things nostalgia, new music, and why some classic Protest songs are missing from streaming platforms. We also talk about Rody's vocal challenges, the band's unique approach to humor, and how they've managed to stay fresh and fearless after 20+ years in the game.

Boys Like Girls talk When We Were Young, perfecting their live show, and the nostalgia of playing songs that defined a generation. Plus, stories from the stage, lessons learned from touring with the Jonas Brothers, and how they keep their energy high 20 years later.

Bad Religion talk When We Were Young, the evolution of punk and emo, and how they accidentally coined the term “emo” back in 1985.

Arm's Length talk When We Were Young, being one of the youngest bands on the lineup, and what it's like sharing the stage with their heroes. Plus, breaking out from Canada, the story behind their new album, and finding connection with fans across generations.

Taking Back Sunday talk When We Were Young, the evolution of their sound, and connecting with a new generation of fans. Plus, how they stay true to their roots, lessons learned over two decades, and the energy that keeps their live shows legendary.

Taylor Acorn talks When We Were Young, leading the new wave of the emo revival, and sharing a lineup with the bands she grew up on. Plus, we chat about her latest release Poster Child, finding her confidence as an artist, and what fans can expect next.

Her Leather Jacket talk When We Were Young, breaking into the scene, and what it's like being one of the newest acts on a nostalgia-packed lineup. Plus, Warped Tour memories, festival discoveries, and new music with members of Underoath!

Set Your Goals talk When We Were Young, reuniting after years away, and what sparked their comeback. Plus, new music updates, the story behind “Echoes,” and reflections on how the scene has evolved since the 2000s.

The Cab talk When We Were Young, emo nostalgia, and what's next. Along with full-circle moments, mental health, and MySpace memories!

Plain White T's talk When We Were Young, emo nostalgia, and the legacy of “Hey There Delilah.” Plus, touring with scene icons, festival memories, and the emo revival in full swing!

On this episode of OurSpace with Matt Vettese, I'm joined by Aren't We Amphibians, the genre-bending alternative/emo band blending indie rock, prog, and post-punk into a sound that's all their own. We dive into the making of their latest record, their creative process, and how they balance experimentation with catchy songwriting. The band opens up about sampling King of the Hill, navigating the DIY scene, and why they're determined to carve out a space outside of traditional genre boxes. If you're a fan of emo, indie rock, math rock, or post-punk revival, this is a must-listen conversation with one of the most exciting underground acts today.

Indie rock trio Weakened Friends are back and gearing up for their brand-new album! In my chat with Sonia and Annie we talk about the band's creative process, their emo and alternative rock influences, and the stories behind their latest songs. We also dive into touring life, the DIY music scene, and what fans can expect next from Weakened Friends. If you're a fan of indie rock, emo, alternative, or bands like Speedy Ortiz, Bully, or Hop Along, this conversation is packed with behind-the-scenes insights and laughs you won't want to miss.

This week on OurSpace with Matt Vettese, I sit down with Ben and Matt from Pretoria to talk about their latest EP If We're Pretending — a coming-of-age record about identity, transition, and chasing dreams even when it feels impossible. We dive into: -Why Pretoria refuses to be boxed into one genre -How they make 3 guitarists actually work live -The leap from Grand Rapids to Chicago and how it changed everything -Getting “weird” (in the best way) on their new release -Writing beyond the traditional “boy meets girl” lens If you love indie rock, power pop, or just discovering your new favorite band, you'll want to give this one a listen.

Sydney Sprague joins me to talk about her upcoming album Peak Experience (out September 26), the art of short records, touring with Spanish Love Songs, and why Chris Walla (Death Cab for Cutie) called her single Flat Circle the “song of the year.” We dig into: -How she picks singles (and why one-minute songs still count!) -Balancing heartbreak and fun in her songwriting -Going fully independent on this record -Meme culture sneaking into her lyrics -Touring with Jimmy Eat World, Dashboard Confessional, and The Front Bottoms -The story of “Fairfield” (and that wild night in Hays, Kansas

Esden from Saturdays at Your Place joins me to talk about their new album These Things Happen (out September 12), their viral hit “Tarot Cards,” and what it's like repping Kalamazoo in the emo scene. We also dive into the stories behind “Waste Away” and “What Am I Supposed to Do?,” working with Tades on new music videos, and their upcoming tour with Riley! and Carly Cosgrove across North America, Europe, and the UK. If you're into modern emo and Midwest emo bands like American Football, Hot Mulligan, and Origami Angel, you'll love this conversation.

Dana Bollen put together a 6 episode podcast series called Live Free or D.I.Y and in Matt's chat we dive into his journey from the corporate world to fully embracing the DIY music scene.  In this episode, we cover:

In this episode, I hang out with Summerbruise as we discuss the humor in their music, their upcoming record "Infinity Guise" out September 19, plus how Tades of Hot Mulligan helped them out with a song on their upcoming record. 

Ryland Heagy takes a moment while on tour to chat with Matt about Origami Angel's latest album Feeling Not Found, playing Warped Tour and more! 

In this episode, I chat with Durry about their new record and the difference between when they got their first big break to now! 

I caught up with Taylor Acorn ahead of her set at All Your Friends Fest in Burl's Creek, Ontario! We chatted about: ✨ What she's most excited for at All Your Friends Fest ⏳ How artists make it through those long festival days

In this episode, I chat with Fil and John of World's First Cinema to talk about their unique sound, how it came to be, and of course what cinematic scores would their songs be perfect for?

In this episode, I sit down with Gabe Woodrow to talk about the unique blend of influences that shaped his sound. From his early love of motocross to the massive impact Ace Enders (The Early November) had on his songwriting journey. We also chat about the challenges of getting your music heard today, the pros and cons of social media, and what you need to do to market your music.

Old Neon is a rising pop punk band you need to have on your radar. In Matt's chat with Drew and Zach they dive into the making of their EP "Resolution," their influences, the current state of the genre, and what it's like building a buzz in today's scene. If you love bands like All Time Low, State Champs, or Neck Deep, Old Neon might just earn a permanent spot in your playlist. This is a band that captures the heart of pop punk with a fresh perspective, killer energy, and hooks that stick.

In this episode, I sit down with isitjosh, as we discuss his upcoming album A Collection of Short Stories About The Heart, dropping May 30th. We talk about the impact of being a social media influencer and how that impacts promoting music and shifting audience perception. 

In this episode, I sit down with Kellin Quinn of Sleeping With Sirens to talk about everything from the band's upcoming new music to what to expect during the I Can't Hear You World Tour with Pierce The Veil.

In this episode, I sit down with Eric Egan, frontman of Heart Attack Man, as we discuss their upcoming album Joyride: The Pale Horse, dropping April 25th. We talk about the band's evolution, the heavier direction of their new sound, and why this record takes a more serious tone compared to past releases.

Coco Kinnon from Winona Fighter joins OurSpace with Matt Vettese to talk about their explosive new album “My Apologies to the Chef.” We dive into the stories behind the songs, the band's DIY roots, and how a Craigslist ad led to one of the most exciting punk bands in the scene today. We also talk about what it means to be a true punk band in 2025, Winona Fighter's unmatched live energy, and why their new album might be their most personal yet.

In this episode of OurSpace with Matt Vettese, I sit down with Cody Hanson of Hinder to discuss their latest single "Bring Me Back To Life", their upcoming album Back To Life (out May 23), and how the band's journey has evolved over the years. Plus, we celebrate 20 years of "Lips of an Angel", reflecting on its massive impact then and now!

In this episode, I sit down with Allen Steinberg of Arm's Length to talk about their upcoming album There's A Whole World Out There, dropping May 16. We dive into the writing process, how this record differs from their previous work, and how Allen has leveled up as a vocalist. Plus, we talk about unique instrument choices (yes, there's banjo!), what it's like to be on this year's When We Were Young Festival, and why he loves "Elder Emos."

In this episode, Matt sits down with Brian McShea, Ivan Barry, and Zach Boucher of Good Terms, an independent post-hardcore/pop-punk band known for their energetic, genre-blending sound and deep, introspective lyrics. We dive into the making of their latest album, Burnout—a record born from raw emotion and personal struggles. Brian also shares his story and experience from the chaos of the LA wildfires. The guys open up about the writing process, the emotional weight behind the songs, and how fans, friends, and family have responded to the record. We also explore the band's musical influences, the vulnerability of putting personal experiences into music, and what's next for Good Terms.

Action/Adventure (A/A) is a pop-punk band hailing from Chicago ready to shatter decades-long stereotypes of the scene. Comprised solely of BIPOC, their mission is to create #PopPunkInColor and ensure pop punk is a genre where everyone is represented on and off stage. Matt Vettese talks to Brompton Jackson about: -Making the emo and pop punk scene a safer space for BIPOC and Queer people -Challenges of writing music with so many people involved -What virality has done for the band and more! Check out more from Action/Adventure: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7uBCPmZFHJzrQDlxHNsFwF Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/action-adventure/535629554 https://actadvband.com/ Check out more from Matt Vettese: Instagram: www.instagram.com/mattvettese TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@mattvettese -- If you loved the show please remember to follow!

What defines a "Summer song" or a "Winter song?" If you're anything like me your brain categorizes music by seasons, so when I heard of Secret Gardens and their recent tetralogy of seasonal albums I knew we had to talk about it. In my chat with Greg Almeida we discussed: -Writing songs for each season -What it was like writing or producing songs out of season -What constitutes a song for each season ...and more! Check out more from Secret Gardens: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0ZJoU0Z8MIukDaRiFwMZcp?si=zz7SG44IRpWnbGH93dFxSQ Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/secret-gardens/1475783793 Bandcamp: https://secretgardens.bandcamp.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secretgrdns/?hl=en Check out more from Matt Vettese: Instagram: www.instagram.com/mattvettese TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@mattvettese -- If you loved the show please remember to subscribe!

Anndy Negative perfectly blends horror movies and aesthetic with the emo and pop punk genres. While I may be a chicken (putting that politely) there is an appreciation to what someone like Anndy Negative has done with his music. In my chat with Anndy Negative we discussed: -Blending Horror with Emo -Creating horror/emo content -The story behind getting on stage with Bowling For Soup ...and more! Check out more from Anndy Negative: Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/artist/50yCm5U828gqpLW8EEEtDM Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/anndy-negative/1136908447 https://anndynegative.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anndynegative/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anndynegative?lang=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/anndynegative Check out more from Matt Vettese: Instagram: www.instagram.com/mattvettese TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@mattvettese -- If you loved the show please remember to follow, rate and review!

Spanish Love Songs are one of those bands that define the "millennial struggle." Thematically, they write songs that every millennial can relate to, from job loss and financial struggles to self identity and death. They have quickly been become one of my favourite emo bands.   In my chat with Dylan Slocum we discussed: -The nostalgia side of emo and why Dylan is over it -The ups and downs of touring -Being an "older" musician on the road with young bands -Possible new music? -Differences between their records -Why they don't play much from Schmaltz live   Check out more from Spanish Love Songs: Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/artist/5DaZV3qmFT3aS57df8KPkV Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/spanish-love-songs/982837028 www.spanishlovesongs.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanishlovesongs/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpanishLoveSongs/ Check out more from Matt Vettese: Instagram: www.instagram.com/mattvettese TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@mattvettese -- If you loved the show please remember to follow and leave 5 stars!

There's a good chance you've discovered at least one new artist through social media, more specifically TikTok in the last 5 years. With the uncertainty surrounding TikTok's future, I had a chat with one of the artists I discovered because of the clock app, Shane Hurst of Adjust The Sails.   In our chat we discussed: -What happens if TikTok goes away? -How will musicians pivot? -What other ways can we discover new artists? -Why does he get compared to The Front Bottoms so often? ...and much more!   Check out more from Adjust The Sails: Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/artist/4xVPBr0C8OxqJL4796EZzr Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/adjust-the-sails/1388183650 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adjustthesailsband Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/official.adjustthesails/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adjustthesailsband/   Check out more from Matt Vettese: Instagram: www.instagram.com/mattvettese TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@mattvettese -- If you loved the show please remember to follow, rate and review!

If you got extra excited at the possibility of Warped Tour coming back, you probably have a few Anberlin CDs somewhere in your basement. This week Matt had a chance to chat with Christian McAlhaney of Anberlin about changing singers, having an audience that has grown up with the band, their latest album, and what's next for the band. Check out more from Anberlin: Website: https://anberlin.com/  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5v61OSg53KaQxGMpErkBNp  Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/anberlin/16269045  Check out Matt Vettese: Instagram: www.instagram.com/mattvettese TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@mattvts -- If you loved the show please remember to leave a review and follow the show!

Matt Vettese had a chance to chat with Travis Mills and Nick Gross of Girlfriends backstage at Budweiser Stage in Toronto on Avril Lavigne's Greatest Hits Tour! They talked about Pop Punk artists, songs, cover songs, and more! Girlfriends are on tour with Avril Lavigne and Simple Plan right now, check out more from them here: https://girlfriendsxo.com/  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4Dwhb9SL7iO3L27oXvEiO7?si=o-9OPixMTTK3842Etzbh1A  Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/girlfriends/1519328660  -- Find more from Matt here: www.instagram.com/mattvettese www.tiktok.com/@mattvts  -- OurSpace Media:  www.instagram.com/ourspace.media https://www.youtube.com/@OurSpaceMedia