Junior Varsity

With their combination of '50s teen pop and cheerleader stage presence, Houston-based Junior Varsity could easily provide the soundtrack to any high-school pep rally. Originally consisting of Matt Murillo (drums/vocals), Kim Hammond (bass/vocals), DJ Butchie Cordell, and Sean McManus (guitar/vocals), Junior Varsity performed the self-described sound of "frat-hop," as they also shared a love for beach movies and three-chord punk. Various compilation contributions and singles were issued between 1996 and 1998 before Junior Varsity's first full-length, Bam Bam Bam, came out in 1998. This release featured the debut of new member Rebecca Whitley, who joined after the departure of McManus. ~ Mike DaRonco