MEST, the stalwart pop-punk outfit hailing from the heart of Chicago's music scene, has returned with a vigor that defies the passage of time. Their latest single, "When We Were Young," featuring Jaret Reddick from Bowling For Soup, serves as a poignant reminder of the band's enduring spirit and unwavering dedication to their craft.
Formed in 1995 by Tony Lovato and his kin, MEST quickly carved out a niche for themselves in the bustling punk rock landscape of Blue Island, Illinois. Their raw talent and blue-collar ethos caught the attention of industry heavyweight John Feldmann, leading to a fruitful partnership with Maverick Records. Four albums and numerous accolades later, MEST seemed poised for eternal glory until their unexpected hiatus in 2006.
Yet, adversity only fueled their resolve. Tony Lovato's relocation to Los Angeles marked the beginning of a new chapter, characterized by self-discovery and artistic reinvention. Amidst personal struggles and the responsibilities of fatherhood, MEST persevered, releasing intimate acoustic albums and touring the globe with renewed purpose.
Their latest opus, "Masquerade," emerged amidst the chaos of 2020, a testament to their resilience in the face of adversity. However, MEST's journey is far from over. With the impending release of their upcoming trilogy, beginning with 'Youth,' the band embarks on a new odyssey of self-exploration and sonic innovation.
In an industry plagued by uncertainty, MEST remains a beacon of authenticity and grit. Their DIY ethos, exemplified by their decision to reclaim artistic control and self-release 'Masquerade,' resonates deeply in an era defined by corporate commodification.
As they gear up for a triumphant return to the stage, MEST remains grounded by their roots and fueled by an unyielding passion for performance. Their forthcoming European tour promises to be a celebration of resilience and camaraderie, a testament to the enduring power of music to unite and inspire.
In the words of Tony Lovato, MEST's journey feels far from complete. With each new endeavor, they defy expectations and embrace the unknown, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape. For MEST, the future is as boundless as their unwavering ambition – a testament to the enduring power of passion and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Tour Dates:
Sat, Apr 13 - Lake Havasu City, AZ @ Havasu Meltdown 2024 (Lake Havasu State Park) w/ The Venomous Pinks
Sat, Apr 20 @ “POP PUNK’S NOT DEAD FEST” 2024 w/ Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, The Ataris, Van Full of Nuns, The Spill Canvas
Sun, May 26 @ DrinkDrink, Rue Paepsem 123.8, Brussels, Belgium
Mon, May 27 @ Goldrube, Eisenschmiede 85, Kassel, Germany
Tue, May 28 @ p.m.k., Viaduktbogen 18/20, Innsbruck, Austria
Thu, May 30 @ Cafe Central Punk Rock Festival (Cafe Central) Weinheim, Germany
Fri, May 31 @ SBAM Fest 2024 (Wels Alter Schlachthof, Dragonerstraße 22, 4600 Wels, Austria, Austria) with GOLDFINGER (exclusive Austria/Germany), SICK OF IT ALL, H2O, SATANIC SURFERS, BRACKET
Sat, Jun 1 @ SBAM Fest 2024 ( Im Wizemann, Quellenstraße 7 70376, Stuttgart, Germany) w/ GOLDFINGER (exclusive Austria/Germany), SICK OF IT ALL, H2O, SATANIC SURFERS, BRACKET
Sun, Jun 2 @ Club Vaudeville, Von-Behring-Straße 6-8, 88131, Lindau, Germany
Tue, Jun 4 @ Backstage By the Mill, 92 Boulevard de Clichy 75018, Paris, France
Wed, Jun 5 @ New Cross Inn, 323 New Cross Road, London
Thu, Jun 6 @ 6:00PM New Cross Inn, 323 New Cross Road, London
Fri, Jun 7 @ 7:30PM Pitcher , Oberbilker Allee 29 40215, Düsseldorf Friedrichstadt
Sat, Jun 8 @ Kufa, Langer Garten 1 31137, Hildesheim, Germany
