I go to a lot of concerts. A LOT of concerts. It’s basically a job for me (hence the sites above in the menu on this site for Concert Pics and Concert vids that are things I personally shot on my phone). I’ve been to so many thousands of shows (literally) and seen so many thousands of bands over the years, it’s not only rare, it’s nearly next to impossible for me to come up across a band I had never heard of, and ended up enjoying. That happened at Lollapalooza in 2023. As we were wandering around in the afternoon while all the stages were either closed or had no name bands playing at them, we made out way over to the south stage where Sincere Engineer was playing. I was immediately floored. In 2023, this was like an old school mix of The Pixies, or Sonic Youth, or Teenage Fan Club (might be dating myself here). But we watched this set, playing on the 2nd largest stage which holds maybe 50,000 people when there was maybe only 3,000 there. And the number of people there was elevated with them being a Chicago band. If they were from somewhere else, they would have likely been playing in a tent to 300 people. But they went on, clearly overwhelmed by the location, and put on one hell of a show. Once the whole weekend was over, they were my favorite set of the rather weak 2023 Lollapalooza (Bleachers were a close second). Once the weekend was done, I had to spend some time looking into this band that some how snuck under my radar. And I have hit up 9 other shows since then, But let’s take a deeper look into this band that by all intents should be WAY bigger than they were. If these guys had been around in the 90s, at the very least they would have hit one hit wonder status (with their song “California King”) like The Meat Puppets, or The Toadies. Which I admit is not a very high mark, BUT they at least had the one hit to bank cash and wide a wave on till this day
Sincere Engineer has carved out a unique niche in the world of punk rock, blending raw emotion, self-deprecating humor, and catchy melodies into a sound that resonates with listeners on a deeply personal level. The brainchild of Chicago-based singer/songwriter Deanna Belos, Sincere Engineer has risen from local performances to become a beloved name in the modern punk scene. Through heartfelt lyrics, energetic live shows, and a growing discography, the band has created a space for vulnerability and authenticity in a genre that thrives on raw emotion.
From Humble Beginnings to the Spotlight
Deanna Belos, the creative force behind Sincere Engineer, grew up in Chicago, surrounded by the city’s rich punk rock culture. Initially envisioning a career far removed from music, she found herself drawn to songwriting as a form of self-expression. Armed with an acoustic guitar, Belos began crafting songs that reflected her struggles, anxieties, and triumphs with an honesty that quickly captivated local audiences.
The name “Sincere Engineer” was born from a mix of humor and happenstance, a perfect reflection of Belos’s personality. Initially performing solo acoustic sets, her performances resonated deeply with fans, leading to the release of her debut album and the eventual formation of a full band to bring her songs to life.
The Music: Honest, Relatable, and Catchy
Sincere Engineer’s music is a unique blend of punk rock energy, emo introspection, and indie rock sensibilities. What sets the band apart is Belos’s ability to articulate deeply personal experiences in ways that feel universal. Her lyrics often explore themes like self-doubt, awkward social moments, and the challenges of adulthood, all delivered with a mix of humor and heartache.
The music itself is high-energy and infectious, with anthemic choruses and riffs that stick with you long after the songs end. This mix of lyrical relatability and melodic hooks has made Sincere Engineer a standout act in a crowded music landscape.
The Albums: A Discography That Tells a Story
Sincere Engineer’s debut album introduced the world to Belos’s songwriting style—candid, witty, and deeply introspective. Tracks like “Corn Dog Sonnet No. 7” and “Ceramic Tile” showcased her ability to turn everyday moments into poignant reflections on life. The album’s raw production and acoustic elements emphasized the sincerity behind each lyric.
The release of their second album marked a significant evolution in the band’s sound. Backed by a full band, the music became louder and more layered while maintaining the emotional core that drew fans in. Songs on this album captured the transition from youthful uncertainty to the complexities of adulthood, resonating with listeners navigating similar life stages.
As the band’s discography has grown, so has its reputation for creating music that feels deeply personal while appealing to a broad audience. Each release builds on the last, showcasing Belos’s growth as both a songwriter and a performer.
A Band Built for the Stage
While Sincere Engineer’s recorded music is compelling, their live performances are where the band truly shines. Belos’s engaging stage presence, combined with the band’s high-energy delivery, creates an atmosphere that draws the audience in and keeps them hooked from start to finish.
Whether performing at small clubs or larger festivals, the band’s ability to connect with fans is evident. Their live shows are not just performances but shared experiences, where the raw emotion of the music is amplified by the energy of the crowd. This connection has earned Sincere Engineer a devoted following and made them a must-see act within the punk rock community.
The Appeal of Sincere Engineer
At the heart of Sincere Engineer’s success is their relatability. Belos’s lyrics speak to the insecurities and awkward moments that so many people experience but often feel too afraid to admit. Through her music, she creates a space where listeners can find comfort in knowing they’re not alone in their struggles.
The band’s ability to blend humor and vulnerability is another key to their appeal. By balancing self-deprecating wit with heartfelt emotion, Sincere Engineer strikes a chord that feels both genuine and uplifting. Their songs remind us that it’s okay to laugh at ourselves while still taking our emotions seriously.
A Growing Legacy in Modern Punk Rock
Sincere Engineer has become more than just a band—they are a voice for a generation navigating the highs and lows of life in an increasingly complex world. Their music resonates with anyone who has ever felt out of place, struggled to find their footing, or needed a reminder that it’s okay to be imperfect.
As they continue to release new music and perform for audiences around the world, Sincere Engineer’s influence within the punk rock scene is only growing. With their unique blend of honesty, humor, and melody, they are carving out a legacy that will endure for years to come.
Conclusion: Sincere, Genuine, and Unforgettable
Sincere Engineer is a band that embodies the spirit of punk rock while pushing the genre into new emotional territory. Through their music, they remind us of the power of vulnerability and the importance of staying true to ourselves. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to their sound, Sincere Engineer offers something special: an invitation to laugh, cry, and sing along to the soundtrack of life’s messiest moments.
Here is the full video of that Lollapalooza show that blew my mind
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