Pop Evil Release Raw and Emotionally Charged EP "Unleaded"

June 2, 2025

In a bold departure from their signature sound, Pop Evil unveil a powerful new chapter with the release of their live acoustic EP, Unleaded, a raw and emotionally charged recording captured in the heart of New York City.

Hosted by SiriusXM Octane and set within the edgy, denim-clad atmosphere of the Cult of Individuality showroom, this release strips away the band’s thunderous riffs and high-octane energy, laying bare the soul of their songwriting in an intimate and electrifying performance.

Known for their explosive live shows and heavy rock anthems, Pop Evil have long been a staple of the hard rock scene. But Unleaded reveals a different side of the Michigan-bred outfit—one that trades distortion and fury for shadow and nuance. The setting was intentionally unconventional. Surrounded by Cult of Individuality’s gritty fashion aesthetic and a crowd of superfans, the band leaned into vulnerability and artistry, proving that their songs are just as powerful—if not more so—when stripped to their emotional core.

The EP features raw, acoustic renditions of fan favorites and a surprise cover of Simple Mind classic '80s hit "Don't You (Forget About Me)," reimagined through a minimalist lens. Frontman Leigh Kakaty's vocals take center stage, enriched by the absence of walls of sound, revealing new shades of melody and lyrical depth. Songs like "What Remains" and "Paranoid (Crash & Burn)" gain new emotional resonance, delivered with haunting clarity and personal intensity. Backed by acoustic guitar, delicate percussion, and harmonized vocals, the stripped arrangements emphasize storytelling over spectacle.

"This was a chance to show our fans who we are underneath it all," Kakaty shared during the Octane broadcast. "No lights, no walls of sound—just the songs and the emotion that built them."

Unleaded serves as a reminder that even the heaviest rock bands have roots in melody and meaning. It's a testament to Pop Evil’s versatility and their willingness to challenge themselves creatively. By peeling back the layers, this EP offers an unforgettable glimpse into the soul of Pop Evil — raw, unfiltered, and undeniably powerful.

Pop Evil are wrapping up the last few dates of their current headline tour. All remaining dates are below. The band is playing festivals and fairs this summer. Expect more touring later in 2025.

POP EVIL ON TOUR:
7/3 — Traverse City, MI — National Cherry Festival
7/5 — Algona, IA — ABATE Freedom Rally
7/18 — Timmins, ON — Rock on the River
7/19 — Brantford, ON – Call Home
7/26 — Grover Hill, OH – Wetzelland
8/2 — Davenport, IA – Mississippi Valley Fair
8/16 — Escanaba, MI — Upper Peninsula State Fair
10/5 — Sacramento, CA — Aftershock

Pop Evil Release 8th Studio Album "What Remains" and Share Music Video for "Side Effects"

March 23, 2025

Modern rock powerhouse POP EVIL — vocalist Leigh Kakaty, guitarists Dave Grahs and Nick Fuelling, bassist Joey "Chicago" Walser, and drummer Blake Allison — have proudly released their eighth album WHAT REMAINS. It arrived today, March 21, via MNRK. Get it here.

Pop Evil have also shared the video for "Side Effects." Watch the performance clip for the ferocious track, which is loaded with explosive riffs and a tectonic plate-shifting breakdown, below

The song is an arena-ready juggernaut and boasts rueful lines such as "The world I built you tried to tear apart" and "Why did I try so hard to prove / What's killing you is killing me too," serving a powerful, unshielded message for anyone who has found themselves in a toxic situation and seeks the strength to break free for their own happiness and growth.

"Every action causes a reaction, a side effect," says Kakaty. "Toxicity is a virus that spreads and kills, but liberation and healing lies in an antidote you already possess. And now is the time to take it."

The band will also hit the road on a massive Spring 2025 headline tour. They will hit the road on April 8 in Tulsa and the trek runs through May 18 in Bloomington, Indiana. Devour the Day (which features members of Pop Evil), Return to Dust, and Oni will serve as support.

All dates are below. Get tickets and VIP packages here.

POP EVIL ON TOUR:
4/8 — Tulsa, OK — Cains Ballroom
4/10 — Dallas, TX — Echo Soundstage
4/11 — Little Rock, AR — The Hall
4/12 — Colombia, MO — The Blue Note
4/13 — Lincoln, NE — Bourbon Theatre
4/14 — Denver, CO — Oriental
4/15 — Colorado Springs, CO — The Black Sheep
4/17 — Los Angeles, CA — Regent Theater
4/19 — Phoenix, AZ — Marquee Theatre
4/22 — Boise, ID — Knitting Factory
4/23 — Seattle, WA — The Neptune
4/24 — Spokane, WA — Knitting Factory
4/25 — Salem, OR — Elsinore Theatre
4/26 — Reno, NV — Cargo
4/29 — Vancouver, BC — Rickshaw Theatre
5/1 — Calgary, AB — The Palace Theatre
5/2 — Edmonton, AB — Century Show Room+
5/3 — Saskatoon, SK — Louis
5/4 — Winnipeg, MB — Park Theatre
5/6 — Chicago, IL — Bottom Lounge
5/7 — Green Bay, WI — EPIC
5/8 — Des Moines, IA — Wooly's*
5/9 — Grand Rapids, MI — 20 Monroe*
5/10 — Detroit, MI — The Fillmore*
5/12 — Lititz, PA — Mickey's*
5/15 — Charlotte, NC — The Underground*
5/16 — Myrtle Beach, SC — House of Blues*
5/17 — Louisville, KY — Mercury Ballroom*
5/18 — Bloomington, IL — The Castle Theatre*
^Pop Evil Only
*No Return To Dust
+No Devour The Day

For two decades, Pop Evil frontman Leigh Kataky has needed to mine the deepest of reserves in order to drag the band up from the blue-collar grassroots of his local Michigan scene to stand proud at the top of the modern rock game. Soaring successes, bitter defeats… Leigh Kakaty has survived it all.

What Remains is the culmination and story of this journey with Pop Evil, laid bare like never before. Continuing in the recent vein of 2023's acclaimed Skeletons, the new opus is both sonically and thematically Pop Evil's heaviest ever offering; a thundering collection of arena-ready modern rock and metal hits in which Kakaty opens heart, mind, and soul.

"There are a lot of issues and things that I've dealt with in this journey of Pop Evil that I've buried for a long time," the frontman explains of this document of resilience, perseverance, and accountability.

Pop Evil were born in North Muskegon, Michigan in 2001, Kakaty drawing on the lessons of a youth first shaped not by music, but by high school basketball — leadership, team work, the drive to improve in the lonely hours put in at the gym at 5am, the will to win suppressing any fear — in order to fight tooth and nail for their break-out moment.

"I was hustling and learning every day to make my dreams come true," Kakaty recalls of his time playing local bars and slinging early EPs out of the back of his truck. "Studying never interested me. Neither did getting a regular job. A knee injury wrecked my shot at playing sports. Music was all I wanted to do from that moment, and I didn't give myself a backup plan. Pop Evil gave me a purpose, and a reason to get up every day. It became a crusade."

Lipstick on the Mirror, their 2008 debut, and its follow-up, War of Angels, brought acclaim and global attention; 2013's Onyx delivered the first of the band's nine No.1 singles and six RIAA-certified gold and platinum plaques, but also a period of darkness brought on by the grief of Kakaty losing his father. "I was completely lost … I had just missed the last five years with my dad, chasing this dream when I could have been with him. I didn’t know if I wanted or could do Pop Evil any more," he says. The band's 2017 self-titled album, opened by the smash-hit "Waking Lions" was written "pretty much to save my life" – but in turn “reminded me of the fire I have inside, and that God put me here to make music that could help people."

It's a mission statement enshrined in Pop Evil to this day — and which provided the spark for the genesis of What Remains.

“You're always chasing that one song that can connect with that one person," Kakaty says. "And that process has to start with yourself. There's a lot of personal healing on this record, a lot of things I wanted to get out for my own mental well-being. I'm finally at a place where I can confront my demons."

Sonically, the album is a riotous explosion of life-affirming noise; a vortex of scything riffs and gut-punch drum beats that regularly give way to Pop Evil's hallmark anthemic choruses.

"We set out to push boundaries," nods Kakaty. "Metal has always been a part of our DNA, but we've never made it such a focal point before. A lot of writing on this record has been about listening to what my soul is saying and letting the songs find their own path, rather than chasing a sound that might fit in on the radio. I think you can really hear the mood and emotion of the album's themes in the music."

Pop Evil Announce Spring 2025 Headline Tour + New Album "What Remains" Out 3/21

February 6, 2025

Modern rock powerhouse POP EVIL — vocalist Leigh Kakaty, guitarists Dave Grahs and Nick Fuelling, bassist Joey "Chicago" Walser, and drummer Blake Allison — recently announced their forthcoming eighth album WHAT REMAINS. It arrives March 21 via MNRK. Pre-save it here. The vinyl pre-order lives on the band official store.

Today, the band has announced its Spring 2025 headline tour. The "What Remains" Tour begins on April 8 in Tulsa, OK and the trek runs through May 18 in Bloomington, IN. Devour the Day (which features members of Pop Evil, Joey and Blake), Return to Dust, and Oni will serve as support.

All dates are below. Get tickets and VIP packages here.

Additionally, Pop Evil have announced details of a private "Album Release Even"t with SiriusXM Octane on March 20. The event will be held at Cult of Individuality in NYC and the band will do an acoustic performance along with a Q&A hosted by Jose Mangin. Details to enter to win this experience with SiriusXM Octane to come.

"The 'What Remains North America Tour' is coming, and we're bringing the chaos with us," the band says. "This isn't just a lineup, it's a sonic onslaught. But this tour isn't just another run of shows, it's a statement. A reckoning. A test of endurance for those who crave something more. Are you ready?"

POP EVIL ON TOUR:
3/20 — New York NY — SiriusXM Octane Album Release at Cult of Individuality^
4/8 — Tulsa, OK — Cains Ballroom
4/10 — Dallas, TX — Echo Soundstage
4/11 — Little Rock, AR — The Hall
4/12 — Colombia, MO — The Blue Note
4/13 — Lincoln, NE — Bourbon Theatre
4/14 — Denver, CO — Oriental
4/15 — Colorado Springs, CO — The Black Sheep
4/17 — Los Angeles, CA — Regent Theater
4/19 — Phoenix, AZ — Marquee Theatre
4/22 — Boise, ID — Knitting Factory
4/23 — Seattle, WA — The Neptune
4/24 — Spokane, WA — Knitting Factory
4/25 — Salem, OR — Elsinore Theatre
4/26 — Reno, NV — Cargo
4/29 — Vancouver, BC — Rickshaw Theatre
5/1 — Calgary, AB — The Palace Theatre
5/2 — Edmonton, AB — Century Show Room+
5/3 — Saskatoon, SK — Louis
5/4 — Winnipeg, MB — Park Theatre
5/6 — Chicago, IL — Bottom Lounge
5/7 — Green Bay, WI — EPIC
5/8 — Des Moines, IA — Wooly's*
5/9 — Grand Rapids, MI — 20 Monroe*
5/10 — Detroit, MI — The Fillmore*
5/12 — Lititz, PA — Mickey's*
5/15 — Charlotte, NC — The Underground*
5/16 — Myrtle Beach, SC — House of Blues*
5/17 — Louisville, KY — Mercury Ballroom*
5/18 — Bloomington, IL — The Castle Theatre*
^Pop Evil Only
*No Return To Dust
+No Devour The Day

For two decades, Pop Evil frontman Leigh Kataky has needed to mine the deepest of reserves in order to drag the band up from the blue-collar grassroots of his local Michigan scene to stand proud at the top of the modern rock game. Soaring successes, bitter defeats… Leigh Kakaty has survived it all.

What Remains is the culmination and story of this journey with Pop Evil, laid bare like never before. Continuing in the recent vein of 2023's acclaimed Skeletons, the new opus is both sonically and thematically Pop Evil's heaviest ever offering; a thundering collection of arena-ready modern rock and metal hits in which Kakaty opens heart, mind, and soul.

"There are a lot of issues and things that I've dealt with in this journey of Pop Evil that I've buried for a long time," the frontman explains of this document of resilience, perseverance, and accountability.

Pop Evil were born in North Muskegon, Michigan in 2001, Kakaty drawing on the lessons of a youth first shaped not by music, but by high school basketball — leadership, team work, the drive to improve in the lonely hours put in at the gym at 5am, the will to win suppressing any fear — in order to fight tooth and nail for their break-out moment.

"I was hustling and learning every day to make my dreams come true," Kakaty recalls of his time playing local bars and slinging early EPs out of the back of his truck. "Studying never interested me. Neither did getting a regular job. A knee injury wrecked my shot at playing sports. Music was all I wanted to do from that moment, and I didn't give myself a backup plan. Pop Evil gave me a purpose, and a reason to get up every day. It became a crusade."

Lipstick on the Mirror, their 2008 debut, and its follow-up, War of Angels, brought acclaim and global attention; 2013's Onyx delivered the first of the band's nine No.1 singles and six RIAA-certified gold and platinum plaques, but also a period of darkness brought on by the grief of Kakaty losing his father. "I was completely lost … I had just missed the last five years with my dad, chasing this dream when I could have been with him. I didn’t know if I wanted or could do Pop Evil any more," he says. The band’'s 2017 self-titled album, opened by the smash-hit "Waking Lions" was written "pretty much to save my life" – but in turn “reminded me of the fire I have inside, and that God put me here to make music that could help people."

It's a mission statement enshrined in Pop Evil to this day — and which provided the spark for the genesis of What Remains.

“You're always chasing that one song that can connect with that one person," Kakaty says. "And that process has to start with yourself. There's a lot of personal healing on this record, a lot of things I wanted to get out for my own mental well-being. I'm finally
at a place where I can confront my demons."

Sonically, the album is a riotous explosion of life-affirming noise; a vortex of scything riffs and gut-punch drum beats that regularly give way to Pop Evil's hallmark anthemic choruses.

"We set out to push boundaries," nods Kakaty. "Metal has always been a part of our DNA, but we've never made it such a focal point before. A lot of writing on this record has been about listening to what my soul is saying and letting the songs find their own path, rather than chasing a sound that might fit in on the radio. I think you can really hear the mood and emotion of the album's themes in the music."

ABOUT MNRK MUSIC GROUP:
MNRK Music Group is one of the largest independent music companies in the world, operating in every major music market. MNRK is committed to discovering and guiding top music creators and artists plus distributing premier music companies Dualtone Music Group and Last Gang. Its catalog across divisions consists of 65,000 music tracks, including multiple GRAMMY winners and platinum-selling hits.

Pop Evil Announce New Album "What Remains" + Share "Wishful Thinking" Video

January 8, 2025

Modern rock powerhouse POP EVIL — vocalist Leigh Kakaty, guitarists Dave Grahs and Nick Fuelling, bassist Joey "Chicago" Walser, and drummer Blake Allison — are pleased to announce their forthcoming eighth album WHAT REMAINS. It arrives March 21 via MNRK. Pre-save it here.

The vinyl pre-order on the band website begins this Friday, January 10.

To celebrate the news, the band has shared the video for the third single "Wishful Thinking." Watch it below.

"'Wishful Thinking' pushes us into a realm that's deeper, darker, and more intense than ever before," says Kakaty.

Lipstick on the Mirror, their 2008 debut, and its follow-up, War of Angels, brought acclaim and global attention; 2013's Onyx delivered the first of the band's nine No.1 singles and six RIAA-certified gold and platinum plaques, but also a period of darkness brought on by the grief of Kakaty losing his father. "I was completely lost … I had just missed the last five years with my dad, chasing this dream when I could have been with him. I didn’t know if I wanted or could do Pop Evil any more," he says. The band’'s 2017 self-titled album, opened by the smash-hit "Waking Lions" was written "pretty much to save my life" – but in turn “reminded me of the fire I have inside, and that God put me here to make music that could help people."

It's a mission statement enshrined in Pop Evil to this day — and which provided the spark for the genesis of What Remains.

“You're always chasing that one song that can connect with that one person," Kakaty says. "And that process has to start with yourself. There's a lot of personal healing on this record, a lot of things I wanted to get out for my own mental well-being. I'm finally
at a place where I can confront my demons."

Sonically, the album is a riotous explosion of life-affirming noise; a vortex of scything riffs and gut-punch drum beats that regularly give way to Pop Evil's hallmark anthemic choruses.

"We set out to push boundaries," nods Kakaty. "Metal has always been a part of our DNA, but we've never made it such a focal point before. A lot of writing on this record has been about listening to what my soul is saying and letting the songs find their own path, rather than chasing a sound that might fit in on the radio. I think you can really hear the mood and emotion of the album's themes in the music."

ABOUT MNRK MUSIC GROUP:

MNRK Music Group is one of the largest independent music companies in the world, operating in every major music market. MNRK is committed to discovering and guiding top music creators and artists plus distributing premier music companies Dualtone Music Group and Last Gang. Its catalog across divisions consists of 65,000 music tracks, including multiple GRAMMY winners and platinum-selling hits.

Pop Evil Share "Deathwalk" Video

November 24, 2024

Modern rock powerhouse POP EVIL follow their scorching single "What Remains" with new, dark track "Deathwalk," produced by Zach Jones & KJ Strock.

The band shared the cinematic music video, directed by Sam Shapiro. Fans will plunge into the dark, fragmented landscape of lead singer Leigh Kakaty's psyche, unraveling the thin line between self-identity and survival. Kakaty confronts existential questions of his own mortality and legacy.

Watch it below.

"We are the accused, the guilty, the damned," the singer says about the harrowing track. "At the end of our 'Deathwalk,' judgment awaits. Are you at peace with what you will leave behind?"

Pop Evil returned in August by showcasing their new sound with single "What Remains." It was produced by Wage War's Cody Quistad and serves as the dawn of a new era for Pop Evil, which the band promises will be its most sonically heavy. "What Remains" currently sits at No. 8 on the Mainstream Active Rock Chart.

The six-time RIAA gold-certified band, plus newly platinum-certified track, "Torn to Pieces," is gearing up for its forthcoming eighth studio album, set for release in Spring 2025.

Pop Evil are currently finishing up the final dates of The Animal Instinct Tour with Bad Wolves. Sierra Pilot and Oni are serving as support. All remaining tour dates are below. Get tickets here.

Kakaty previously confirmed the band’s new lineup, saying, "We are also proud to officially announce the newest member of the Pop Evil lineup — Blake Allison." Allison is replacing departed member Hayley Cramer on drums, joining Kakaty and fellow bandmates, guitarists Dave Grahs and Nick Fuelling, and bassist Joey "Chicago" Walser.

Pop Evil first rose to international prominence with debut album Lipstick on the Mirror, featuring RIAA Certified Gold Single "100 in a 55." After Kakaty famously tore up the band's major label contract onstage, Pop Evil signed with MNRK Heavy (formerly eOne Music). 2011's War of Angels debuted in the Top 10 of the Rock Albums chart and produced three Top 10 singles.

The band's 2013 album Onyx put them in the Top 40 of the Billboard 200 for the first time and boasted three consecutive No.1 rock songs, two RIAA Gold Singles, and one Platinum Single with "Torn to Pieces." Pop Evil's next release, Up, was the No.1 Independent Album in America and made it to #25 on the Billboard 200. It featured several Top 5 rock songs and a chart-topper with "Footsteps," which also went Gold.

Pop Evil's 2018 self-titled set included the No.1 hit and newly certified Gold single "Waking Lions" and two other Top 10 hits. 2020's Versatile, meanwhile, scored two No.1 rock songs: "Breathe Again" and "Survivor." In 2023, the band released its seventh studio album Skeletons, which spawned their eighth and ninth No.1 singles: "Eye of the Storm" and "Skeletons."

ABOUT MNRK MUSIC GROUP:

Pop Evil announce U.S. tour with Bad Wolves

September 18, 2024

Modern rock powerhouse POP EVIL return with the new single "What Remains."
It's the dawn of a new era for Pop Evil, which the band promises will be its most sonically heavy.
You've been warned, because the track, with its thunderous riffs and rhythmic thrust, fulfills that promise.
Watch the lyric video for the song, which was produced by Wage War's Cody Quistad Below.

Kakaty continues, "We are also proud to officially announce the newest member of the Pop Evil lineup — Blake Allison." Allison is replacing departed member Hayley Cramer on drums, joining Kakaty and fellow bandmates, guitarists Dave Grahs and Nick Fuelling, and bassist Joey "Chicago" Walser.
Pop Evil has recently announced its Fall 2024 tour plans. The band will embark on "The Animal Instinct Tour," which is a co-headline run with Bad Wolves. Sierra Pilot and Oni will serve as support. The trek kicks off October 30 in Jacksonville, North Carolina and runs through November 30 in Lexington, Kentucky.
SELL ALL POP EVIL TOUR DATES HERE

Pop Evil Announce Fall 2024 Headline Tour Plans

August 20, 2024

Modern rock powerhouse POP EVIL recently returned with the utterly scorching new single "What Remains." It serves as the dawn of a new era for Pop Evil, which the band promises will be its most sonically heavy. The song was No. 1 Most Added with 55 stations and just debuted at 33 on the active rock radio charts, and is climbing.

Watch the lyric video for the song, which was produced by Wage War's Cody Quistad, below.

Today, the band announces its Fall 2024 tour plans. The band will embark on "The Animal Instinct Tour," which is a co-headline run with Bad Wolves. Sierra Pilot and Oni will serve as support. The trek kicks off October 30 in Jacksonville, North Carolina and runs through November 30 in Lexington, Kentucky.

Additional Pop Evil shows are also on deck. All tour dates are below. Get tickets here.

"We are stoked to announce 'The Animal Instinct Tour' with our friends in Bad Wolves," says Pop Evil singer Leigh Kakaty. "This tour will be full of high energy and radio hits from start to finish. We can't wait to see you all out there!"

"It's difficult to express how excited I am to get back on the road again with the boys," says Bad Wolves guitarist Doc Coyle. "Co-headlining with a powerhouse like Pop Evil will be a real treat for fans of both bands and will keep us on our toes to bring our A-game every night. It's a true honor to share the stage with them, Sierra Pilot, and ONI. Bad Wolves will be performing an eclectic set including songs from Die About It that we haven't played yet, and I'm sure some surprises. The band is firing on all cylinders right now, and this will be a hell of a way to close out 2024. LFG, Wolfpack!!!"

About the new single, Kakaty stated, "Over the years, I've been faced with torment; departures, failures, and uphill climbs. It takes a reckoning to strip us to our core and confront our true selves. What endures beyond these trials is who you are, your essence. That is what remains. On our upcoming album, we have dared ourselves to make the most lyrically raw and sonically heavy album of our career. 'What Remains' sets the tone of what is to come."

Kakaty also confirmed the new lineup, saying, "We are also proud to officially announce the newest member of the Pop Evil lineup — Blake Allison." Allison is replacing departed member Hayley Cramer on drums, joining Kakaty and fellow bandmates, guitarists Dave Grahs and Nick Fuelling, and bassist Joey "Chicago" Walser.

POP EVIL ON TOUR:
ONE-OFF:
8/30 — Pryor, OK — Rocklahoma
9/13 — Hutchinson, KS — Kansas State Fair

THE ANIMAL INSTINCT TOUR:
10/30 — Jacksonville, NC — Hooligans*
10/31 — Spartanburg, SC — The Hall*
11/1 — Orlando, FL — Addition Financial Arena — WJRR Halloweenie Roast**
11/2 — Jacksonville, FL — Jack Rabbits (Acoustic Show)***
11/3 — Greensboro, NC — Hangar*
11/6 — Cincinnati, OH — Bogarts
11/7 — Pittsburgh, PA — Roxian
11/8 — Glenside, PA — Keswick Theatre
11/9 — Albany, NY — Empire
11/10 — Norfolk, VA — The NorVa
11/12 — Cleveland, OH — TempleLive
11/13 — Indianapolis, IN — Vogue
11/14 — St Louis, MO — Red Flag
11/15 — Huntsville, AL — Mars Music Hall
11/16 — Mobile, AL — Soul Kitchen
11/17 — Tuscaloosa, AL — Druid City
11/19 — Fort Smith, AR — TempleLive
11/20 — Wichita, KS — TempleLive
11/22 — Springfield, MO — Gillioz
11/23 — Milwaukee, WI — Rave II
11/24 — Omaha, NE — Admiral
11/26 — Nashville, TN — Brooklyn Bowl
11/27 — Ft Wayne, IN — Piere's
11/29 — Columbus, OH — The Bluestone
11/30 — Lexington, KY — Manchester Music Hall
*No Bad Wolves
**Supporting Wage War
***Pop Evil Only

Pop Evil's 2018 self-titled set included the No.1 hit and newly certified Gold single "Waking Lions" and two other Top 10 hits. 2020's Versatile, meanwhile, scored two No.1 rock songs: "Breathe Again" and "Survivor." In 2023, the band released its seventh studio album Skeletons, which spawned their eighth and ninth No.1 singles: "Eye of the Storm" and "Skeletons."

ABOUT MNRK MUSIC GROUP:

Pop Evil release new single

August 12, 2024

Modern rock powerhouse POP EVIL return with the new single "What Remains."
It's the dawn of a new era for Pop Evil, which the band promises will be its most sonically heavy.
You've been warned, because the track, with its thunderous riffs and rhythmic thrust, fulfills that promise.
Watch the lyric video for the song, which was produced by Wage War's Cody Quistad , Below.

"Over the years, I've been faced with torment; departures, failures, and uphill climbs," says singer Leigh Kakaty. "It takes a reckoning to strip us to our core and confront our true selves. What endures beyond these trials is who you are, your essence. That is what remains. On our upcoming album, we have dared ourselves to make the most lyrically raw and sonically heavy album of our career. 'What Remains' sets the tone of what is to come."
Kakaty continues, "We are also proud to officially announce the newest member of the Pop Evil lineup — Blake Allison." Allison is replacing departed member Hayley Cramer on drums, joining Kakaty and fellow bandmates, guitarists Dave Grahs and Nick Fuelling, and bassist Joey "Chicago" Walser.

Pop Evil - Skeletons Spotify Fans First Cassette
SHIPPING NOW
SELL ALL POP EVIL MUSIC & MERCH HERE

Pop Evil Release Music Video for Top 5 Single SKELETONS!

October 21, 2023

Michigan-based hard rock group Pop Evil releases the official visual for their newest single and title track “Skeletons,” which is currently Top 5 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart. Directed by long-time friend Johan Carlèn, the video depicts a supply run in the wastelands of a dystopian future going wrong. A striving man finds himself face-to-face with death. It is a relentless fight between human and machine.

About the video, frontman Leigh Kakaty says, “Sometimes the little things in life come with the hardest challenges to overcome. It was awesome to team up with our long-time friend and director, Johan Carlén, to tell this tale of one man’s determination; to risk it all in a world that is constantly coming after him. With so much chaos in the world today, we feel it is important now, more than ever, to remember we are only human.”

The band is about to embark on their 19-date, U.S. headlining Flesh & Bone tour, with special guests Fame on Fire and Lylvc. The Flesh & Bone Tour commences in Fort Smith, AR, on October 28, 2023, and wraps up in the band's hometown of Grand Rapids, MI, on November 22, 2023.

Skeletons U.S. Flesh & Bone Headlining Tour:

October 28 - Fort Smith, AR - Temple Live
October 29 - Wichita, KS - Temple Live
October 31 - Madison, WI - The Sylvee
November 1 - Angola, IN - Electric Ballroom
November 3 - Reading, PA - Reverb
November 4 - Asbury Park, NJ - Stone Pony
November 5 - Baltimore, MD - Baltimore Soundstage
November 7 - Columbia, SC - The Senate
November 9 - Orlando, FL - House of Blues
November 10 - Charleston, SC - Music Farm
November 11 - Johnson City, TN - Capone’s
November 12 - Birmingham, AL - Iron City
November 14 - Louisville, KY - Mercury Ballroom
November 16 - Flint, MI - The Machine Shop (SOLD OUT)
November 17 - Flint, MI - The Machine Shop (SOLD OUT)
November 18 - Cleveland, OH - Temple Live
November 19 - Cincinnati, OH - Bogart’s
November 21 - Columbus, OH - The Bluestone
November 22 - Grand Rapids, MI - The Intersection

Connect with Pop Evil:

Website
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter/X

Pop Evil Announce Headlining Flesh & Bone Tour!

September 5, 2023

Michigan-based hard rock group Pop Evil has announced the Flesh & Bone Tour, with special guests Fame on Fire and Lylvc. The Flesh & Bone Tour is an 18-date, headlining U.S. tour that commences in Fort Smith, AR, on October 28, 2023, and wraps in the band's hometown of Grand Rapids, MI, on November 22, 2023. Tickets to these shows go on sale to the public this Friday, September 8, at 10 a.m. local time. Full dates are below.

The band's current single (and titled track to recent album), "Skeletons," is now Top 10 on the Billboard Chart. The single has quickly become a staple for Pop Evil and is now approaching 8 million streams to date.

The recent album, Skeletons, was released on March 17 via MNRK Heavy and features Ryan Kirby (Fit For a King), Blake Allison (Devour The Day), and Zillion. The 11 tracks also include the single “Eye of the Storm,” which landed at the #5 Most Played Song in 2022 on Billboard's Mainstream Rock Chart, and recent singles, “Paranoid (Crash & Burn)” (Top 10 at Rock Radio), and, “Dead Reckoning (Ft. Fit For A King).”

Skeletons U.S. Flesh & Bone Headlining Tour:

October 28 - Fort Smith, AR - Temple Live
October 29 - Wichita, KS - Temple Live
October 31 - Madison, WI - The Sylvee
November 1 - Angola, IN - Electric Ballroom
November 3 - Reading, PA - Reverb
November 4 - Asbury Park, NJ - Stone Pony
November 5 - Baltimore, MD - Baltimore Soundstage
November 7 - Columbia, SC - The Senate
November 9 - Orlando, FL - House of Blues
November 10 - Charleston, SC - Music Farm
November 11 - Johnson City, TN - Capone’s
November 12 - Birmingham, AL - Iron City
November 14 - Louisville, KY - Mercury Ballroom
November 16 - Flint, MI - The Machine Shop
November 18 - Cleveland, OH - Temple Live*
November 19 - Cincinnati, OH - Bogart’s
November 21 - Columbus, OH - The Bluestone
November 22 - Grand Rapids, MI - The Intersection

* No Fame on Fire

Pop Evil has massive anthems and built a new rock’n’roll institution on a foundation of showmanship, raw relatability, and hard rock hooks, both forward-thinking and timeless from frontman Leigh Kakaty, lead guitarist Nick Fuelling, rhythm guitarist Dave Grahs, bassist Joey "Chicago" Walser and drummer Hayley Cramer. No matter the headline-grabbing declarations from legendary icons lamenting the changing of the guard, the slow-burning success of Pop Evil demonstrates the hunger for hard-hitting, honest music persisting worldwide. The band has amassed 8 #1 singles, 5 Top 5 singles, and 8 Top 10 singles, totaling an incredible 20 top 10 singles throughout their career.

Connect with Pop Evil:

Website
Facebook
Twitter/X
Instagram

Pop Evil Announce New Summer Tour Dates

June 3, 2023

POP EVIL ADD NEW U.S. DATES TO THEIR SUMMER TOUR

NEW ALBUM SKELETONS OUT NOW, FT. RYAN KIRBY (FIT FOR A KING), BLAKE ALLISON (DEVOUR THE DAY), AND ZILLION

Michigan-based hard rock group Pop Evil have announced 9 new U.S. headlining tour dates this summer, including stops in Mobile, New Orleans, Colorado Springs, Minneapolis and more. Tickets to these shows go on sale to the public today, at 10 am local time. As previously announced, the band is also performing at numerous festival shows around the country this summer. Full dates are below.

The band’s new album, Skeletons, was released on March 17 via MNRK Heavy and features Ryan Kirby (Fit For a King), Blake Allison (Devour The Day), and Zillion. The 11 tracks include the single “Eye of the Storm,” which landed at the #5 Most Played Song in 2022 on Billboard's Mainstream Rock Chart, and recent singles, “Paranoid (Crash & Burn)” (currently Top 10 at Rock Radio), and, “Dead Reckoning (Ft. Fit For A King).”

Skeletons U.S. Summer Headlining Tour:

20-Jul - Menagha, MN - Mid-Summer Music Fest *
21-Jul - Escanaba, MI - Northern Lights Music Festival*
23-Jul - Jefferson City, MO - Capital Regional MU Health Care Amphitheater
25-Jul - Mobile, AL - Soul Kitchen
26-Jul - New Orleans, LA - House of Blues
28-Jul - Grover Hill, OH - Wetzel Moto Rally *
30-Jul - Bloomington, IL - The Castle Theatre
2-Aug - Rock Springs, WY - Sweetwater County Fair *
3-Aug - Colorado Springs, CO - The Black Sheep
5-Aug - Kalamazoo, MI - Rib Fest *
9-Aug - Minot, ND - The Original
10-Aug - Sturgis, SD - Buffalo Chip *
11-Aug - Three Forks, MT - Rockin The Rivers *
13-Aug - Minneapolis, MN - Fine Line
15-Aug - East Moline, IL - The Rust Belt
17-Aug - Ottuwa, IA - Bridge View Center
18-Aug - Glen Flora, WI - Northwoods Rock Rally*
19-Aug - Yankton, SD - Yankton Riverboat Days *
1-Sep - Grand Island, NE - Nebraska State Fair *

*=festivals

Pop Evil has massive anthems and built a new rock’n’roll institution on a foundation of showmanship, raw relatability, and hard rock hooks, both forward-thinking and timeless from frontman, Leigh Kakaty, lead guitarist Nick Fuelling, rhythm guitarist Dave Grahs, bassist Joey "Chicago" Walser and drummer Hayley Cramer. No matter the headline-grabbing declarations from legendary icons, lamenting the changing of the guard, the slow-burning success of Pop Evil demonstrates the hunger for hard-hitting honest music persisting worldwide. The band has amassed 8 #1 singles, 5 Top 5 singles, and 7 Top 10 singles, totaling an incredible 20 top 10 singles throughout their career.

Connect with Pop Evil

www.popevil.com

www.facebook.com/popevil

www.twitter.com/PopEvil

www.instagram.com/popevil

BRKN LOVE Cover Post Malone of New Single "ALLERGIC"

June 12, 2021

BRKN LOVE Release Electrifying Cover of Post Malone's "ALLERGIC" - LISTEN

On Tour This Summer with Pop Evil!

Toronto-based Hard Rock outfit BRKN LOVE have spent the past year hard at work in the lab; crafting the follow-up to their 2020 self-titled debut. Today, the band is thrilled to share a special treat with their fans ahead of their sophomore effort, and have dropped a cover of Post Malone's "Allergic" from the multi-genre breakout record 'Hollywood's Bleeding'. The brainchild of 23-year-old frontman/guitarist Justin Benlolo, BRKN Love began making waves in 2019 with their rollicking debut single "Shot Down"

Fans can check out the band's cover of "Allergic" at the link found here.

"Post Malone is a rockstar and everyone knows it. We wanted to exploit that. When I first listened to Hollywood's Bleeding, I thought to myself, 'this is a rock album hiding behind hip-hop production.' Allergic was the closest thing I’d heard that was almost a hard rockin’ song and I just thought it would be fun to take a crack at it. This is a tribute to one of music’s biggest icons and I hope you enjoy our take!"

Previously, BRKN LOVE also covered Bishop Briggs' hit song "River" for the deluxe version of their debut record. The cover has become something of a viral sensation, with more than 30,000 unique videos featuring the track created on TikTok boasting over725 million total views, and another 34 million views on all other user-generated content platforms.

In addition to the new track, BRKN Love have announced that they will be hitting the road in North America this summer alongside Pop Evil! Dates can be found below.

POP EVIL PREMIERES MUSIC VIDEO FOR LATEST SINGLE “BREATHE AGAIN”

February 10, 2021

NEW ALBUM VERSATILE COMING IN SPRING 2021
VIA ENTERTAINMENT ONE

STREAM: "Breathe Again"

Michigan's own, POP EVIL, debuted the official music video for their latest hit single “Breathe Again”, from a string of hit singles the band has dropped during the turbulent year of 2020, including “Let The Chaos Reign” and “Work”, which rose to one of their fastest Top 10 hits yet. The video marks the first set of visuals from their sixth full-length, Versatile, that’s expected this spring via Entertainment One (eOne). The futuristic and partly animated video, directed by Johan Carlén captures Pop Evil in a new light as they dive into their greatest stylistic shift to date, striking on some of their heaviest moments as a band while still balancing their unflinching groove with cinematic melody.

POP EVIL has been a staple at major festivals and in theaters and clubs for over a decade, despite the group's relative youth. As they've ruled the roost with No. 1 Billboard Rock singles like "Trenches," "Deal with the Devil," "Torn to Pieces," "Footsteps," and "Waking Lions," they've taken their inspired message to the people, on tours with modern rock titans and veteran acts alike. The band bunkered down in Los Angeles in the winter of 2019 to put the finishing touches on the yet to be titled new album due out in 2021 via eOne. The band also enlisted new creative teams of producers and collaborators to emphasize the band's sound's uniquely varied aspects.

As "Breathe Again," "Let The Chaos Reign," and "Work" might suggest, the contrast and fearless genre-defying cross-cultural pollination have never been more pronounced than on album number six. The preproduction process yielded close to 30 songs, whittled down to the most potent 12 representing everything about POP EVIL. This new effort will be the highly anticipated follow up to their self-titled album that came out two years ago to high critical praise, with outlets like Loudwire saying, "their self-titled effort continues that delivers a solid top-to-bottom listen." Collectively, the band's previous five albums account for over 600 million worldwide streams.

POP EVIL is: Leigh Kakaty (Lead Vocals), Nick Fuelling (Lead Guitar), Dave Grahs (Rhythm Guitar), Matt DiRito (Bass), Hayley Cramer (Drums)

POP EVIL DEBUTS NEW SINGLE “BREATHE AGAIN”

November 15, 2020

The official visualizer for "Breathe Again" - off our upcoming album, Versatile. Follow Pop Evil: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3liP0Mz Apple Music: https://appl...

PREPARING RELEASE DATE OF
NEW ALBUM VERSATILE

DUE OUT IN 2021 VIA ENTERTAINMENT ONE

STREAM: "Breathe Again"

November 13, 2020 - After teasing something new for the past few days, Michigan's own, POP EVIL, debuted their third single of the year, "Breathe Again", and revealed the title of their sixth album, Versatile, due out in 2021. After surprising their fanbase with the most significant stylistic shift in sound to date with "Work," POP EVIL have championed that success into the explosive catharsis found on their new single. More dialed in than ever, Leigh Kakaty flexes his songwriting growth and vocal capabilities across one of the band's most uplifting and soaring choruses to date. Channeling the groove of their latest Top 10 single “Work” and the chugging riffs of its companion track “Let The Chaos Reign,” "Breathe Again" marks one of POP EVIL's most diverse and captivating releases to date. The band continues to bridge their heaviness with cinematic melody, indicating what's to come on their forthcoming album due out next year via Entertainment One (eOne).

POP EVIL has been a staple at major festivals and in theaters and clubs for over a decade, despite the group's relative youth. As they've ruled the roost with No. 1 Billboard Rock singles like "Trenches," "Deal with the Devil," "Torn to Pieces," "Footsteps," and "Waking Lions," they've taken their inspired message to the people, on tours with modern rock titans and veteran acts alike. The band bunkered down in Los Angeles in the winter of 2019 to put the finishing touches on the yet to be titled new album due out in 2021 via Entertainment One (eOne). The band also enlisted new creative teams of producers and collaborators to emphasize the band's sound's uniquely varied aspects.

As "Breathe Again," "Let The Chaos Reign," and "Work" might suggest, the contrast and fearless genre-defying cross-cultural pollination have never been more pronounced than on album number six. The preproduction process yielded close to 30 songs, whittled down to the most potent 12 representing everything about POP EVIL. This new effort will be the highly anticipated follow up to their self-titled album that came out two years ago to high critical praise, with outlets like Loudwire saying, "their self-titled effort delivers a solid top-to-bottom listen." Collectively, the band's previous five albums account for over 600 million worldwide streams.

Pop Evil is: Leigh Kakaty (Lead Vocals) , Nick Fuelling (Lead Guitar), Dave Grahs (Rhythm Guitar), Matt DiRito (Bass), Hayley Cramer (Drums)

POP EVIL DEBUTS ANIMATED MUSIC VIDEO FOR LATEST SINGLE “WORK”

August 2, 2020

Visit the Pop Evil Official Site: http://popevil.com Stream "Work" now! https://lnk.to/popevilwork Directed by: Mungo Animation by: Juan Dahik and Malachi St...

PREPARING NEW ALBUM FOR ENTERTAINMENT ONE

Michigan's own, POP EVIL, debuted the music video for their newest hit single “Work”that was released earlier this spring in the midst of uncertain times. The track arrived alongside “Let The Chaos Reign”, one of the heaviest songs the band has released yet, while “Work” counterbalanced it with driving guitars atop a grooving rhythm with electronic flourishes. The new animated video brings “Work” to life, tackling the angst and emotions of being stuck in a rut, the monotony of daily life juxtaposed with constant communication as technology is fused with all parts of life. As heard this summer in ESPN’s UFC promotions, “Work” has jumped into the Top 10 Active Rock songs at US radio charts, tying for the band’s fastest Top 10 hit yet.

POP EVIL has been a staple at major festivals and in theaters and clubs for over a decade, despite the group’s relative youth. As they’ve ruled the roost with No. 1 Billboard Rock singles like “Trenches”, “Deal with the Devil”, “Torn to Pieces”, “Footsteps”, and “Waking Lions”, they’ve taken their inspired message to the people, on tours with modern rock titans and veteran acts alike. The band bunkered down in Los Angeles in the winter of 2019 to put the finishing touches on the yet to be titled new album due out via Entertainment One (eOne). The band also enlisted new creative teams of producers and collaborators to emphasize the uniquely varied aspects of the band’s sound.

As “Let The Chaos Reign” and “Work” might suggest, the contrast and fearless genre-defying cross-cultural pollination have never been stronger than on album number six. The preproduction process yielded close to 30 songs, whittled down to the most potent 12 that represent everything POP EVIL is about. This new effort will be the highly anticipated follow up to their self-titled album that came out two years ago to high critical praise with outlets like Loudwire saying, "their self-titled effort continues that delivers a solid top-to-bottom listen." Collectively, the band’s previous five albums account for over 600 million worldwide streams.

Pop Evil is: Leigh Kakaty (Lead Vocals) , Nick Fuelling (Lead Guitar), Dave Grahs (Rhythm Guitar), Matt DiRito (Bass), Hayley Cramer (Drums)

POP EVIL RELEASES TWO NEW SINGLES "LET THE CHAOS REIGN" AND "WORK" PREPARING NEW ALBUM FOR 2020

May 1, 2020

April 30, 2020 - Michigan's own, POP EVIL, have released two new singles "Let The Chaos Reign" and "Work", marking the first taste of new music from the band since their Pop Evil full-length in 2018. The new tracks arrive as a twin assault of invigorating readymade hits for 2020, from a forthcoming album filled to the brim with a dozen tracks each worthy of a dedicated spotlight. “Let the Chaos Reign” is the heaviest single the band has ever dropped, a rousing fight song of self-determination and rising to meet any challenge with courage and strength. By contrast, “Work” puts its heavy guitars atop grooving rhythmic punch, as it champions the working-class heroes struggling to persevere across all industries today.

Speaking on the new singles and upcoming album, frontman and band founder Leigh Kakaty stated:

“We won’t bore people with the same song over and over. When you come to our live show, we feel like there should be an ebb and flow, peaks and valleys, that are similar to real life. Sometimes you’re up, sometimes you’re down. We like to take people on a journey when they listen to our music or come to see us live.”

POP EVIL has been a staple at major festivals and in theaters and clubs for over a decade, despite the group’s relative youth. As they’ve ruled the roost with No. 1 Billboard Rock singles like “Trenches”, “Deal with the Devil”, “Torn to Pieces”, “Footsteps”, and “Waking Lions”, they’ve taken their inspired message to the people, on tours with modern rock titans and veteran acts alike. The band bunkered down in Los Angeles in the winter of 2019 to put the finishing touches on the yet to be titled new album due out later this year via Entertainment One (eOne). The band also enlisted new creative teams of producers and collaborators to emphasize the uniquely varied aspects of the band’s sound. As “Let The Chaos Reign” and “Work” might suggest, the contrast and fearless genre-defying cross-cultural pollination have never been stronger than on album number six. The preproduction process yielded close to 30 songs, whittled down to the most potent 12 that represent everything POP EVIL is about. This new effort will be the highly anticipated follow up to their self-titled album that came out two years ago to high critical praise with outlets like Loudwire saying, "their self-titled effort continues that delivers a solid top-to-bottom listen." Collectively, the band’s previous five albums account for over 600 million worldwide streams.

Earlier this month, POP EVIL also shared the news that their North American The Versatile Tour is postponed with details to follow regarding new dates.

Pop Evil is: Leigh Kakaty (Lead Vocals) , Nick Fuelling (Lead Guitar), Dave Grahs (Rhythm Guitar), Matt DiRito (Bass), Hayley Cramer (Drums)