(Kawaii AF / Photo credit: lazy eye photography – Zack Luther)
Kawaii AF, the New Orleans band blending emo-pop, pop-punk, and heavy anime aesthetics, have released ‘Simply Hopeless’ as the lead track for their upcoming full-length album. Led by vocalist Brandon Cunningham, they’ve carved out space in the emo revival by reviving MySpace-era melodrama with modern gloss and their trademark “candy-coated angst.” Recorded at ZK Productions in Atlanta, known for working with acts like Mayday Parade and Cartel, this track marks a big step, finally bringing a song written over a decade ago to full production polish.
‘Simply Hopeless’ hits with fast tempos, sharp riffs, and hook-heavy choruses that channel the raw energy of catching feelings in a situation meant to stay light. The emo drive shines through in the urgent vocals and bouncy rhythms, blending heartbreak with that playful wink the band does so well, making it a solid addition to the current emo revival wave.
Kawaii AF shared: “Simply Hopeless is about falling into infatuation in a situation that should have stayed casual”.
At a time when emo and pop-punk callbacks are everywhere, Kawaii AF stand out by capturing the joy of that early 2000s sound: the screaming catharsis, sparkly heartbreak, and mischief that made it irresistible. Having this unfiltered, high-energy take back in rotation feels exciting, especially as they hit the road for shows including Ballads and Breakdowns Fest on February 7th, 2026 in San Antonio, TX, where their anthems will stand out in a breakdown-filled lineup.
Stream ‘Simply Hopeless’:
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