The HYPE

By day, Sebastian Barajas is deep in the world of childhood studies as a PhD student, examining what kids can teach adults about curiosity, imagination, and possibility.

Off the academic clock, that same curiosity shows up everywhere. In the kitchen perfecting egg sandwiches for their partner. In the park launching snowballs at trees or frisbees at benches depending on the season. Always experimenting. Always exploring.

That spirit carries into their performance. Thoughtful, creative, and a little unexpected.

Catch Sebastian live at the Polydelphia Variety Show
Saturday, February 28th at 2PM
The Fire | 21+ | $15 at the door

A familiar face at open mics across Philly, Allen Merry brings sharp songwriting, acoustic guitar, and just the right amount of inappropriate humor to the Polydelphia Variety Show stage.

After retiring as a librarian in 2024, Allen has had more time to focus on what really matters: writing catchy, clever, and occasionally questionable tunes. He also occasionally reunites with his late 90s / early 2000s band, Crevice Tool, but on February 28th you’ll catch him solo.

Expect acoustic guitar, smart lyrics, and a set that keeps you laughing while you’re nodding along.

Allen will be performing live at The Fire
Saturday, February 28th at 2PM
21+ | $15 at the door

Come early. He only needs about 15 minutes to make an impression.

What an incredible night at Fat Lady Brewing on Saturday. We want to send a massive thank you to the amazing artists who shared their talent with us and an even bigger thank you to the supporters who showed up and filled the room.

A special shout out goes to Ashley Wolf, Rob Tait, and the entire team at Fat Lady Brewing for their hospitality and for being such great partners in bringing this vision to life. It was also great to see the community bringing everyone out...including the dog who stopped by to catch a few sets.

​Saturday night was a reminder of why live music matters. Philadelphia is a world class city with legendary venues and incredible bands but the magic only happens when the community shows up. The music scene here is something special and it thrives when we all decide to get up off the couch and experience it in person.

​If we keep showing up for each other and supporting local stages we can make this city and its music scene feel truly unstoppable in the coming year.