When you think of a high school punk band, you imagine a bunch of edgy, middle class teens filled to the brim with angst, hatred of their parents, and bad lyrics to an even worse beat. However, Shin Guard truly is an exception to the rule.

With 2 EPs already released and an album in the making, the group of high school seniors from North Allegheny, North Hills, and Lincoln Park have burst onto the Pittsburgh music scene as a legitimate force to be reckoned with.

Even more impressive are the 30+ shows the band has performed in a number of venues around the city, from Mr. Smalls and the Roboto to invite-only gigs at places like Cafe Verona and Ba Sing Se.

Like any young new band, Shin Guard has had to play alongside established bands with sizable fan bases around the country, yet the quality of sound that Shin Guard is pumping out stands on equal stature.

At the band’s November 25th show at the Black Forge Coffee House, producer Evan Tuccerllo was especially impressed. 

“When we were their age we were actually so much worse,” Tuccerllo said. “I love how good they are and I am excited to see where they end up.”

The band is led by frontman Owen Traynor on lead guitar and vocals, the Uproar’s own Joe Bojarski of North Allegheny is on guitar and vocals, and Ryan Al Yester and Jake Sheila of North Hills play the drums and bass, respectively.

Follow Shin Guard on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram @shinguardpgh and see them on January 31st at the Black Forge Coffee House.