Concerts and Shows at The Magic Bag

Hot Rod Circuit with Cult Therapy

Sunday, March 15 - Doors 7pm - All Ages

Hot Rod Circuit is an American alternative rock band that originated from Auburn, Alabama, in the late 1990s. Founded in 1997, the band swiftly gained recognition for their dynamic sound, fusing elements of emo, punk, and indie rock. Comprising members Andy Jackson (vocals, guitar), Casey Prestwood (guitar), Jay Russell (bass), and Mike Poorman (drums), 

Hot Rod Circuit embarked on a musical journey that resonated with fans seeking a balance between raw emotion and infectious melodies. The band's breakthrough came with their debut album, If I Knew Now What I Knew Then, released in 1999. The album showcased Hot Rod Circuit's ability to craft catchy hooks and poignant lyrics, earning the made voted following within the burgeoning emo and punk scenes. Their sophomore effort, If It Cool with You, It's Cool with Me (2000), further solidified their status, featuring emotionally charged tracks that explored themes of heartbreak and self-discovery. 

Hot Rod Circuit's energetic live performances and relatable songwriting endeared them to audiences across the United States. Their music, characterized by Jackson's emotive vocals and the band's tight instrumentation, captured the spirit of the early 2000s emo movement. 

The band's third album, Sorry About Tomorrow (2002), marked another significant chapter in their career showcasing their grow than devolving sound. Reality's Coming Through (2004) continued this trajectory, displaying a more mature and experimental side of Hot Rod Circuit. The album featured a blend of introspective lyrics and dynamic musical arrangements, further solidifying their reputation as a band capable of pushing boundaries within the alternative rock genre.

Over the years, Hot Rod Circuit continued to experiment with different musical elements while maintaining their signature sincerity. The Underground Is a Dying Breed (2007) served as another statement to their evolving sound.

Hot Rod Circuit disbanded in 2007. The band re-formed in 2011 and has since continued to tour, delighting both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Their live performances serve as a testament to their enduring appeal and the lasting impact they've had on the alternative music scene. Hot Rod Circuit's legacy endures as a symbol of authenticity and emotional resonance in the ever-evolving landscape of alternative rock



Supporting Hot Rod Circuit is Michigan's own Cult Therapy. Formed in Flint in 2022, Cult Therapy delivers a sound that's as intense as it is immersive. Heavy, driving riffs collide with hook-laden guitar lines, evocative cello arrangements, and a thunderous rhythm section. The result is both explosive and deeply dynamic, creating a space where aggression and vulnerability intertwine. The band's debut full-length, "Get Fucked, Sinner!", dropped April 4th 2025 via Freak Baby Records. "It's equal parts raw confessional, grief exorcism, and journey of healing, and is one of the singular records of the year to date." – Brian Stout – PopMatters.

For fans of Weezer, Cursive, and Microwave.

The Magic Bag
22920 Woodward Ave
Ferndale, MI 48220
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