Cincypunk Fest VI is quickly becoming one of the premier musical events in the Cincinnati area. Running March 21 through 24, it features some of the area’s top local talent, as well as a few touring bands that shouldn’t be missed. If you’re a fan of good music, now’s the time to give something a bit closer to home a shot. Forget paying $20 or more to go to Bogarts and see three or four bands, because now you can see something even better for a lot less. Here are a few acts that shouldn’t be missed at Cincypunk Fest VI, and just because it’s called Cincypunk Fest doesn’t mean you’re just going to hear three chord songs that clock in at under 2 minutes.

Straw Boss- Thursday, March 22 at 12:30 a.m.- These honky tonk rockers never disappoint. Based out of Northern Kentucky, this three-piece rock-a-billy band is going to add a bit of a country twang to Cincypunk Fest, bringing their old-school brand of rock to the Poison Rooms stage. If you’re a big fan of country, roots rock or almost anything from the ’50s, make sure you check out Straw Boss on Thursday night. You can get a listen to a few songs on the band’s myspace page, www.myspace.com/10839930.

The Frankl Project- Friday, March 23 at 8:45 p.m.- Presenting an amazing blend of punk, reggae, ska and a little bit of everything else, the Frankl Project can please almost crowd. This band shows amazing talent, especially for being one of the younger acts on this year’s festival. Make sure you get a chance to see them out while you have a chance. Check out a sample of their music at www.myspace.com/thefrankylproject.

The Spunks- Friday, March 23 at 10:45 p.m.- They might not be native to the Cincinnati area, or even this country, but The Spunks will rock just as hard as anyone else. Originally from Japan, this three-piece punk band exudes and explosive energy beyond description. They’ve wowed fans in Cincinnati at the Midpoint Music Festival, and now’s your chance to see them blow away the crowd at Cincypunk Fest. You can get a sample of their music at www.myspace.com/thespunks.

500 Miles to Memphis- Friday, March 23 at 1:15 a.m.- This band shouldn’t be in Cincinnati too much longer. An intelligent blend of rock-a-billy, country and just some good old-fashioned rock ‘n’ roll, its live show is one not to be missed. While this band has been impressing crowds across the Tri-state, make sure you take the time to see them. You can hear a sample at www.myspace.com/500milestomemphis.

Junior Revolution- March 24 at 10:15 p.m.- A regular performer at Cincypunk Fest, this is yet another band on the brink escaping Cincinnati. The three members of Junior Revolution mix catchy pop punk hooks with emotive lyrics that create an energetic style of music that always get the crowd going. Check out a sample of their tunes at www.myspace.com/juniorrevolution.

Banderas- Saturday, March 24 at 12:45 a.m.- This band plays some down and dirty rock ‘n’ roll. They’re currently recording a full-length, and the new material Banderas is putting out is simply amazing. With an explosive live show, this band personifies hard rock with their unique blend of metal, punk and a straight up rock ‘n’ roll. Check out a few songs at www.myspace.com/banderas, and then see them live. The band’s current recordings don’t do them justice.

This is only a small sample of the talent rocking the Poison Room this weekend. If one of these bands doesn’t sound like they’re quite for you, there’s bound to be one that is. You can check out the full list of bands at www.myspace.com/cincypunkfest. It only takes five minutes to hear a few local bands via the links provided. You owe it to yourself to see just what the Cincinnati music scene is made of.