The Chicago-based pop-punkers Me

The Chicago-based pop-punkers Mest have been around for well over a decade. Their brand of sometimes snotty, sometimes fun and always energetic rock has always been easy to digest. The band has overcome the scene police, physical ailments and the party-hard rock and roll lifestyle, but for one reason or another, these guys have decided to call it quits. The band's career was far bigger than many people think. Four full-length albums, a tight relationship with Goldfinger frontman John Feldmann (who produced most of their albums), tours with Unwritten Law and Good Charlotte and stints on Warped Tour are all part of Mest's career diary. Historically, Mest songs were about drinking, sex and relationships. Their newest release Photographs was a dark reality check for the band. Lead singer Tony Lavato had a near life-ending experience that had him in the hospital and reflecting on what the doctors told him would be his last seven days on earth. Thankfully Lavato pulled out of it and wrote Photographs, an album that looks death right in eye and gives it one big middle finger.

Popular Underground Magazine was able to catch the band's second to last show in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where Lavato began the set by raising a shot and saying, "So long and thanks for the booze." Mest steamrolled through fan favorites that spanned the band's career. Songs like "Hotel Room," "Drawing Board," "Fuct Up Kid," "Rooftops" and "Jaded" were all great to hear live one last time. Of course what would a Mest set be without "Cadillac" and "Fuck the Greyhound Bus?" The band played "Kiss Me, Kill Me" and "Take Me Away (Cried Out to Heaven)," but the real focus seemed to be on those old favorites of Wasting Time, Destination Unknown and the band's self-titled release.

Bassist Matt Lavato was absent that night as he was at home spending time with his newborn daughter. It was evident that Tony had some bitterness toward the music industry. He was quite outspoken against major record labels and the scene police. He mentioned that it doesn't matter what kind of music we like, fuck what other people think, be proud of what you love. I wonder if the reason Mest are calling it quits is because they've just had enough of the industry. Nevertheless, the show was great. It's sad to see them go, I personally loved these guys. Hopefully we'll see them in one way, shape or form rocking crowds again. Until then, enjoy these pictures (there's a lot).

Words and Photos By: Adam Karol - Senior Editor / Founder