Avenues

Avenues is a punk rock band formed in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 2006. The group consists of Vin Smith, Shawn Brooks, Scott Brooks, and drummer Marc Perez, who joined in November 2015 replacing original drummer Joel Maske. Known for their energetic midwestern punk sound, Avenues has released several EPs and LPs, working with producer Matt Allison at Atlas Studios in Chicago, Illinois, recognized for his work with Alkaline Trio and The Lawrence Arms.

Formation and Musical Style

Formed in 2006, Avenues quickly carved out a niche in the punk scene with a sound described as midwestern punk. Their music features driving rhythms, catchy melodies, and socially aware lyrics, influenced by the vibrant punk rock culture of Milwaukee.

Notable Achievements and Performances

The band’s song “Hold Me” was featured on episode 2 of MTV’s reality series The Real World: St. Thomas in 2012, increasing their exposure. Avenues have performed at major music festivals such as Punk Rock Bowling, Envol et Macadam, and Summerfest, sharing stages with renowned acts like Buzzcocks, Bob Mould, Rise Against, and Less Than Jake, among others.

Discography

EPs

• NoHo (2012, Gas Can Music)
• Postcards From Ann Arbor (2013, Stayposi Records)
• Creep Show (2015, Wiretap Records)

LPs

• We’re All Doomed (2021, Wiretap Records, Sbam Records)

Compilation Appearances

• Music With Meaning: Vol 1 (2013, Stayposi Records) – “Hold Me”
• Wiretap:Connected Vol 2 (2015, Wiretap Records) – “Messin’ Around”
• Another Wiretap Records Comp Vol 3 (2015, Wiretap Records) – “Rad Rad Ebola”
• ATTENTION: A Wiretap Records Compilation (2015, Wiretap Records) – “She’s Out Of Sight”
• ATTENTION: A Wiretap Records Fall 2015 Compilation (2015, Wiretap Records) – “Hipster 101”