If you follow Tuned Up or at least me on social media then you should have known that this band would be included. Ryan and I talk about “Tuned Up” bands from time to time, and if there was anyone, it’s the guys that makeup To Kill a Monster. This band has a long history with us here at Tuned Up. They even were the headliners of the very first Steadfast Fest pre-show, and that show also served as their comeback show, which made it all the more special. So to see then on this lineup is awesome. I’m so happy for them. If you are ready for a grand ole time next Sunday, then this is one band you do not want to miss. If you aren’t already a fan, then you will with certain leave their set one. Here is what singer Joey Lawson had to say about a few things.

TUNED UP: What attracted your band to this festival?

Joey Lawson: Any show that involves Columbus getting together and having a party is where we want to be. We’re always more than happy to help, especially for those festival style moments.

Are you all working on anything at the moment?

We’re still very hard at work on our new album, and our newest single “Growing Up” is just the beginning. We can’t wait to unveil more of that, along with the acoustic album we’re also working on that will hopefully be a collection of our almost 15-year history with this project. New and old reimaginings that never made it past the live shows. We might also be working on something super special that will all be revealed later!

What acts are you looking forward to seeing at the festival?

So many, but to name just a few: A Decade Apart, Courtney From Work, Zoo Tripping, Miller And The Hunks, and Life And The Universe.

What is your favorite summertime drink?

Just about anything while on the beach, or whiskey around the campfire.

Favorite summer activity?

Mini Golf, golf, corn hole, volleyball, and campfires.

What makes a good summer song/album?

Anything that just puts a smile on your face while driving down the road with the windows down, or that great sing-along song you are your friends can’t help but scream when that certain part comes on.

Do you have a favorite festival?

Van’s Warped Tour has always held the top spot for us, but Inkcarceration, Sonic Temple, and of course Irish festival are always amazing.

If you could have your own festival, what would it be called and who would play the first year?

A name sounds like the hard part, but let’s just call it a Monster Fest. How about The Offspring, Rise Against, Story Of The Year, AFI, Alexisonfire, The Used, Tenacious D, Maximum The Hormone, Billy Talent, Dance Gavin Dance, Don Broco, Sum 41, A Day To Remember, Alestorm, Nekrogoblikon, Beartooth, Zebrahead, Crossfaith, and a whole bunch of locals. We, of course, might just want to be on that.

What is one thing you enjoy about the summer?

That it’s not winter.

What are your thoughts on socks with sandals?

Only if you’re Kyle Gass. No one else is allowed.

If you had to pick one thing that makes summers awesome in Columbus, what would it be?

The concerts and festivals are definitely a plus. Always something to do if you’re bored, with a great community.