WFA: HOT SEAT - Everything Is Noise

For many, discovering a new band is a serendipitous event – a live show, a radio hit, or an algorithm’s suggestion. But sometimes, it’s a single, unforgettable riff that grabs your attention. That’s precisely how many are finding Philadelphia’s nu-punk group, HOT SEAT, thanks to their song “Pepperoni Crackers.”

From Kids’ TV to Nu-Punk Sensations

The origins of “Pepperoni Crackers” are surprisingly wholesome. HOT SEAT was commissioned to write the song for an episode of the children’s show Albie’s Elevator, which airs on the Philadelphia PBS station WHYY. The band members, Molly Bearden, Jesse Morency, Stephen Kilpatrick, Eddie Devlin, and Pavlo Demkiv, completed the track in under a day and enjoyed the experience immensely. In a delightful twist, the character Pepperoni Sam is voiced by Joe Genaro of the iconic band The Dead Milkmen, whom HOT SEAT had previously shared a stage with.

Did You Know? The band recorded all of their current material, except for “Pepperoni Crackers,” in a single recording session.

The Accidental Band

HOT SEAT’s formation was equally unconventional. The band began as a two-piece project between Molly Bearden and a previous drummer. Jesse Morency joined shortly after, and the group quickly realized they needed to expand. Stephen Kilpatrick was famously “hired” while drunk at an open mic night, and Eddie Devlin was recruited with the promise of playing a “big dumb instrument” – a keytar acquired from a Facebook Marketplace trip to Maryland.

Touring and Evolving Sound

The band recently completed a regional tour across the US and Canada, which led to the addition of drummer Pavlo Demkiv, who needed a passport to join the tour. The Toronto show was a particular highlight, even attracting a visit from Molly Bearden’s pilot husband – though his bike was unfortunately stolen during the trip.

A Shift in Tone

HOT SEAT’s recent EP, Kissy Kissy, released on December 5, 2025, marks a sonic departure for the band. While earlier singles showcased a more frantic punk energy, Kissy Kissy leans towards an alt-gaze, dream-pop sound. The band recorded the EP, along with previous singles, at Gradwell House with producer Alexi Peters, who they consider an integral part of the group.

Expert Insight: The band’s decision to record a substantial body of work at once, then release it strategically, suggests a deliberate approach to building a local following and refining their artistic identity.

The EP release was accompanied by visually striking Instagram videos created in collaboration with animator qqpowpow, a 19-year-old artist whose unique style perfectly complements the band’s evolving aesthetic. Currently, HOT SEAT is attempting to clear out inventory of a unique T-shirt featuring lyrics from their song “HIGH VALUE WOMAN,” even offering personal delivery within Philadelphia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What inspired the song “Pepperoni Crackers”?

HOT SEAT wrote “Pepperoni Crackers” for an episode of the children’s show Albie’s Elevator on WHYY, the Philadelphia PBS station.

How did Eddie Devlin join the band?

Eddie Devlin was asked to fill in on shows while Stephen Kilpatrick was on paternity leave, and the band decided to keep him on after he acquired a keytar from Facebook Marketplace.

What is the band working on now?

HOT SEAT is currently recording new material at Gradwell House, with sessions scheduled to begin on February 28th.

Given their willingness to experiment with sound and embrace unexpected collaborations, what direction do you anticipate HOT SEAT taking with their next release?

WFA: HOT SEAT – Everything Is Noise