Philadelphia’s The Bad Ups have just shared their latest single, “Ego Trip,” ahead of the release of their upcoming LP, Life of Sin, out September 27 via Jump Start Records.
Frontman Travis McKayle says,“‘Ego Trip’ is about finding your place in the world while staying true to yourself.”
The four-piece punk band draws heavy inspiration from the Epitaph and Fat Wreck bands of the 90s and early 2000s, while also embracing the rhythms of traditional ska and reggae. Channeling the spirit of Bad Brains, they blend these genres into a unique sound.
McKayle, who is of Jamaican descent, named the band The Bad Ups after the Caribbean patois term “baddup”—which means to treat someone poorly or violently. This name reflects their intense musical style and their ability to connect with the term’s cultural roots.
Since their formation in 2018, The Bad Ups have built a dedicated following and shared the stage with prominent acts like Face to Face, The Bouncing Souls, The Adicts, and Street Dogs. Their versatile sound appeals to various punk subcultures, from ska to oi, making them a versatile addition to many lineups.
What do you think of The Bad Ups’ new offering, “Ego Trip”?
