Action/Adventure is a pop punk/easycore band from Chicago that I came to know of last August. They played a stacked show here in Columbus at Donatos Basement with locals Sleepjacket (R.I.P.) and Heroes like Villains. And touring bands Southpaw and Knockout Kid. That show was easily my favorite show of last summer. Part of the reason was Action/Adventure. The energy they delivered that night was unparalleled and left me wanting more. However, it wasn’t just the energy it was their all-around set. From The way, front man Blake Evaristo interacted with the crowd to how bassist Alex Oregel moved around like a madman to Adrian Brown’s precise drumming. This is a band that plays like a well-oiled machine. And it’s these things that are going to make them a favorite at Sophomore Slump Fest. I know they are well known and loved in the scene, however, it’s those folk that doesn’t know them that are going to be blown away. If you are attending SSF don’t miss their set. Trust me!!!!

TUNED UP: DESCRIBE YOUR BAND IN FIVE WORDS.

Action/Adventure: We have no white people.

Lol. Bet you weren’t expecting that. In all seriousness though we embrace our diversity within a genre full of good-looking white dudes. We try not to play the card often, however, marketability is definitely a thing. It’s not uncommon for people to take notice of our ethnicities and we’ve gotten comments like, “Didn’t expect you guys to sound like that!” or “I didn’t even know you guys were all minorities!” We think it’s hilarious and don’t take offense to it. We will note though that we’re seeing a lot more people of color in the pop-punk scene as of late which is awesome. That’s us.

TUNED UP: WHO ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING AT SOPHOMORE SLUMP FEST?

Action/Adventure: It’s has to be Kid Liberty. It’s an obvious choice. They seldom play shows and this could very well be the only chance we have to see them. Not to mention we all jammed “Fight With Your Fists” back in the day. We’re stoked to see them.

TUNED UP: IF ANY BAND THAT NO LONGER EXISTS COULD HEADLINE A SHOW YOU PLAY, WHO WOULD IT BE?

Action/Adventure: My Chemical Romance. They were one of those “hot topic” bands that transcended the scene and became something much bigger. The evolution between their first three albums is really something. Sure there’s a ton of lesser known pop-punk bands we’d love to play with…but we’re shooting a little higher for this one. Gerard Way, hit us up.

TUNED UP: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER ACTIVITY?

Action/Adventure: Who doesn’t love food? Action/Adventure loves to BBQ. We’re talking charcoal grill, burgers, pork shoulder, ribs, beer, chicken, etc. Nothing beats a good time with your friends. Also, Alex is really good at ultimate frisbee.

TUNED UP: WHAT SUMMER MOVIE ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING?

Action/Adventure: This is an unfair question because we’re movie people and we can’t just choose one. So here’s two Spider-Man and Planet of The Apes.

TUNED UP: ALL TIME FAVORITE SUMMER JAM

Action/Adventure: Again, it’s impossible to choose one. But it’s hot and humid right now in Chicago so we’re just trying to get our smoothie on dawg. Summer Jam – Set Your Goals.

TUNED UP: What band from your area do people need to hear?

Action/Adventure: Aiming For Average. We’re gigantic fans of their latest EP and it also helps they’re cool dudes. Chicago is such a hot spot for really awesome bands and we’re fortunate to be constantly surrounded by great music.

TUNED UP: What is your favorite fair/festival food?

Action/Adventure: Funnel Cakes! Nuff Said!

TUNED UP: SWEET TEA OR LEMONADE?

Action/Adventure: Arnold Palmer (RIP)