Naked Naps is an upbeat indie rock duo from Raleigh, NC. Their maturation into a local staple hasn’t sacrificed the qualities in their songwriting that retain the urgency of needing to start a band. While clearly interfacing with the current DIY network, they pull decidedly from Ted Leo, The Thermals, and Mission of Burma, they at times hint at highlights from the playbook of American Football, leaving you wondering why emo ever became a bad word. Naked Naps prove you can put your heart on your sleeve without losing your cool, and give lo-fi a higher mission than easy street cred. (Paul Blest)