Matches

Matches is a pop-punk band hailing from Oakland, California, formed in 1997 originally under the name The Locals by school friends Shawn Harris (vocals/guitar), Justin San Souci (bass), and Matt Whalen (drums). Known for their high-energy live shows and catchy, hook-filled songs like "The Jack Slap Cheer" and "The Restless," they quickly gained a dedicated fan base through a DIY approach that included self-releasing their debut album *E. Von Dahl Killed the Locals* and a grassroots promotional campaign called "Commotion Promotion," where they performed guerrilla acoustic sets to build buzz around their shows. Their music and relentless touring helped them become a beloved staple of the California pop-punk scene in the 2000s.

Despite near-mainstream success and collaborations with notable producers, the band was significantly affected by the early digital disruption of the music industry and challenges with management, which contributed to their hiatus after their 2009 self-produced final album. Since then, The Matches have reunited for tours and maintained a loyal following, cementing their status as a hardworking and influential pop-punk act with an enduring reputation for spirited performances and memorable anthems.