Skipping The Surface

Song Of The Day: Far ‘Are You Sure?’ The punk rock community has been familiar with Jonah Matranga for years; he’s been an ongoing influence with all groups he’s been in (Far, Onelinedrawing, and his solo career); even showing his chops with bands like Thursday and hip-hop artists like Lupe Fiasco. The fact is, that meeting this man can’t help but make you smile. He’s one of the most generous musicians I have ever met.

I met him in Boston a few times when he opened up for The Movielife and other bands. Weeks later while at Skate & Surf Fest in NJ, I ran into him again right after the Alkaline Trio finished their set. He was standing just on the other side of the barrier, rocking out. The night before he had made an appearance with Coheed & Cambria; signing the ‘Don’t let them scare you,’ part in the song ‘Devil In Jersey City.’ An amazing performance. Anyway, we were chit chatting and my buddy and I asked him if there was any chance of getting Matt Skiba to signa ‘Get Well Card,’ for our friend; a huge Alkaline Trio fan and was unable to make the trip to Jersey. Jonah said, in all honesty, that he didn’t think he could, but was hoping, he himself could meet him. He then offered to sign the card AS Matt Skiba, which we thanked him for, but passed. We said our good-byes, he thanked us for the support of him, and went on his rocking out way. One of the purest and most genuine souls in the punk rock scene.