Naming a band is an act of concentrated creative expression. Square Pig in a Round Hole exists to reward five favorite band names each week. Winners are (usually) listed alphabetically.

Selection is wholly unscientific and subject to whim, with a bias toward wordplay, humor, and local flavor. In most cases, I won’t know anything about the bands at the time of selection. Thanks to the Seattle Times and The Stranger nightlife listings for abundant source material!

None of that gets in the way of bringing you the best in band names. If you are able, please buy these bands’ music and merch to encourage them as we perhaps move into less interesting times. And … hit the follow button at the lower right to never miss a post!

The Comet is Coming
Straightforward astronomical announcement or dire portent? Watch the sky either way.

Future Tense
… and the present’s not so serene, either.

Local Tourist
Spend the day exploring what your own city has to offer. Spend the night in your own comfy bed. Describes some of my favorite vacations.

Ocean Alley
Something wide, something narrow, both presumably deep.

The Rookery
An orderly, formal name for what is home to squawks, flutters, and … guano. I like it.

Two last things before you go:

1. I run The Rage Brigade, a Facebook group for conversation about fantasy, science fiction, superheroes, and music (and the intersections thereof). If that sounds like fun, come join us here.
2. I share highlights from this blog in my quarterly author newsletter, The Storypunk Report, as well as news of what I’m writing and reading, upcoming events, and other goodies, including “Wizard in the Mosh Pit,” an exclusive short story just for subscribers. Click the link to check out the archive and subscribe here for future issues. Next one comes out in early October! (Or just follow the blog for your weekly dose of band names.)