Ekko Astral

Like a more glittery version of the legendary generations of Washington, D.C. hardcore bands, Ekko Astral play a style of punk they call “mascara moshpit.” Debut album Pink Balloons became one of the year’s best-reviewed debuts, thanks in part to the group’s catchy, in-your-face melodies and lyrics that provided a necessary alternative to the more traditional doom & gloom of life in 21st century American life, from the climate crisis to attacks on transgender rights.