An Emo Interview: Jordan and Sam from The Emo Kids Official Band

This week, Katie is fully in her feels after discovering @callumdrums — an online child drumming prodigy whose precision and passion behind the kit is giving main character energy. Meanwhile, Nani clocks a very specific cultural crossover moment: Mike White rocking a Stanley, Idaho tee on Survivor 50. Small-town pride meets reality TV chaos? We love to see it.

Then the hosts welcome Jordan and Sam from The Emo Kids, the California-based emo/pop-punk cover band currently on tour and bringing the nostalgia to The Argyros in Ketchum on March 7. The guys dive into what it takes to perform near-perfect, front-to-back album covers of the records that raised us — from dialing in the tones to honoring the emotional weight of every lyric scream. It’s not just cosplay; it’s craftsmanship fueled by deep love for the scene.

They also share stories from the band and road, including collaborations with Jaret Reddick of Bowling for Soup and Christian McAlhaney of Anberlin and Acceptance — pinch-me moments that prove the emo world is both massive and tightly knit. The conversation digs into the ongoing emo resurgence, why these records still hit so hard, and how today’s scene blends elder emos with a brand-new generation discovering breakdowns and black eyeliner for the first time.

To close it out, Katie and Nani battle it out with their “Emo Lyrics of the Day.” There are dramatic readings. There are questionable vocal runs. There is undeniable commitment. And yes — Katie takes the win.

Throw on your studded belt and press play. 🖤