US pop punk kings State Champs are in their most confident era yet after dropping their fourth LP, Kings of the New Age in May. It's been a lifetime since the boys have graced our shores — Unify Gathering 2019 in fact — and we're over the moon about the band's latest announcement. They're heading our way this September to play their new album live for Aussie fans amidst their popular back catalogue of bangers. The lads have also rounded up some of their pop punk counterparts for the ride, and if glancing at this lineup alone, this is the tour of our dreams.
Pulling up as main support are 2000s pop/rock heavyweights The Maine, who need no introduction. They've amassed a following with the pop punk crowd since 2008 with their breakthrough LP, Can't Stop Won't Stop and continue to offer up infectious tracks today. Their latest collab with Taking Back Sunday and Charlotte Sands, 'Loved You A Little' has emerged as one of our catchiest tracks this year.
Initially announcing their maiden voyage down under alongside Foo Fighters this December, the passing of Taylor Hawkins has slightly changed Hot Milk's 2022 touring. The Manchester dual-fronted quartet have steadily grown a loyal following in Australia and their appearance this September is the best news we've heard since they dropped 2021's I JUST WANNA KNOW WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I’M DEAD. With the band expected to unleash follow-up EP, The King & Queen of Gasoline on August 5th, their debut on our shores this September is going to be one hot ticket!
Finally, rounding up what is easily the pop punk tour of the year are Aussie newcomers and rising stars Paperweight. Emerging onto the scene amidst a global pandemic, this Melbourne four-piece have been consistently at the forefront of our minds since their appearance on Knight & Day Festival. With their debut EP, Green Lotus Blooms making a splash on everyone's playlist, Paperweight's explosively catchy tunes are going to kickstart the show on the right note.
With a strong bill like this, expect tickets to absolutely fly out the door when they go on sale Friday at 10am local time
Words by Tamara May @citylightstam
State Champs Australian Tour
Supported by The Maine, Hot Milk and Paperweight
Friday 1st September @ The Tivoli, Brisbane
Saturday 2nd September @ The Forum, Melbourne
Sunday 4th September @ The Roundhouse, Sydney
Tuesday 6th September @ The Gov, Adelaide
Thursday 8th September @ Magnet House, Perth
