Naming a band is an act of concentrated creative expression. Since 2010, Square Pig in a Round Hole has been rewarding 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 Stranger’s Everout nightlife listings for abundant source material!

I hope you had a safe and lucky Friday the 13th! Condolences to anyone who had to spend the day at an airport.

Shout out to the Seattle Pop Punk Festival! Of the 15 bands in the lineup, I had previously seen one live (Ramona), honored five here (Trash Sound Conglomerate, Quitting Time, Evelyn’s Casket, The Subjunctives, and Big Smack), and will add two more today (Boris the Sprinkler and The Scoffs). I only regret that the festival ends tonight.

If you are able, please buy these bands’ music and merch. Also, check out the Battle of the Bands my pal Chantel is doing at The Swamp, picking new competitors each week from Square Pig. And…hit the subscribe button at the bottom to never miss a post.

Boris the Sprinkler
Goofy, loving homage to Keith Moon? I hope so.

Kingdom of Giants
This one caught my fantasy writer’s eye. My Tales from Deep River series includes a myth of mysterious communities of giants living in the mountains. They turn out to be small bands of tall but not gigantic humans; neither a kingdom nor giants.

Ok Goodnight
How to end a call when you’re half asleep already.

The Scoffs
Tersely dismissive, allowing no BS. Very punk.

Sporadic Kicks
Either my awkward dancing, or having fun only now and then.

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 monthly 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 below for future issues.