Used to be Valentines with Arcade 9 at Up The Creek Records

Used to Be Valentines

Used to Be Valentines writes love songs for the ones still stuck in the past. With roots in late 90's Pop Punk and 2000's Emo and Alternative Rock, their sound blends heartfelt storytelling with catchy vocal hooks, huge drums, and melodic guitar riffs. Their debut album, The Good Years, is a bittersweet dive into reckless youth, longing, and the romantic chaos of looking back on what could’ve been. Fronted by lead vocalists Niels Sorensen and Rachel Lynch, Used to Be Valentines captures the spirit of sleepless nights, missed chances, and overthought texts in their energetic live shows. Whether you're healing, spiraling, or just trying to feel something, Used to be Valentines is right there with you.

Arcade 9

Arcade 9, the dynamic four-piece band hailing from Oakland, CA, has been turning heads and capturing hearts since their formation in 2022. Led by the powerful and emotive vocals of Aleu Moana, this female-fronted pop punk/emo band channels the raw energy and spirit of early 2000s punk, infused with a nostalgic nod to the aesthetics of the 80s and 90s.

Drawing inspiration from iconic bands such as Blink-182, Sum 41, and Green Day, Arcade 9 blends the infectious hooks and rebellious energy of pop punk with the introspective and heartfelt lyrics characteristic of the emo genre. Their music is a time capsule of punk’s golden eras, reviving the essence of youthful angst while carving out their unique soundscape.

Arcade 9's journey began in local underground venues such as the iconic 924 Gilman, where bands such as Green Day got their start. With each member bringing their own distinct flair and musical background, the band creates a cohesive and captivating sound.

Visually, Arcade 9 is a vibrant blend of punk’s raw edge and the colorful, retro vibes of the 80s and 90s. Their style, both on stage and off, reflects a love for bold patterns, neon lights, and vintage arcade games, creating a nostalgic yet refreshingly modern image that resonates with fans old and new.

Arcade 9 is more than just a band; they are a revival of the punk spirit, a celebration of nostalgia, and a beacon for those who dare to dream in neon.