By Bryan McCabe
Last Friday night in Milwaukee, WI was transformed into a night of pure pop punk ecstasy. A Day To Remember, The Story So Far, Four Year Strong, and Scowl were nothing short of spectacular for the sold out crowd of eager fans at the Eagles Ballroom.
Scowl kicked off the night with their relentless hardcore punk, and the result was a sonic assault that left the crowd breathless. The Bay Area quintet’s live show is a ferocious display of raw energy and unbridled aggression. From the moment they stormed the stage, Scowl unleashed a tidal wave of blistering riffs, punishing breakdowns, and vocalist Kat Moss’s guttural vocals. Their set was a relentless barrage of tracks like “Bloodhound” and “Shot Down” which ignited the pit as fans pushed and shoved with feral abandon. Scowl’s live show is a testament to the raw power of hardcore punk. If you’re a fan of heavy music that hits you like a ton of bricks, then Scowl is a band you need to see live.
Next to take the stage was Four Year Strong, who brought their infectious energy to The Eagles Ballroom, delivering a set that was equal parts nostalgia and high-octane excitement. As soon as the band hit the stage, the crowd was a sea of singing, jumping, and crowd surfing fans. The setlist was a perfect blend of old and new, catering to both longtime fans and those discovering the band for the first time. Tracks like “We All Float Down Here” and “Wasting Time” sparked a collective sing-along that shook the venue to its core. Meanwhile, newer songs like “daddy of mine” showcased the band’s continued evolution while still retaining their signature sound. Frontman Alan Day’s vocal prowess was on full display, effortlessly switching between melodic choruses and aggressive breakdowns. The band’s musicianship was tight and precise, creating a wall of sound that was both powerful and irresistible. While the show was undeniably fun, there was an underlying sense of nostalgia that permeated the entire night. Four Year Strong has been a staple in the pop-punk scene for over a decade, and their live show is proof of their enduring popularity.
The Story So Far lit up Milwaukee with their signature blend of melodic punk rock. Renowned for crafting anthemic choruses and heartfelt lyrics, the band’s enduring popularity was on full display. From the opening chords of “Keep This Up,” the crowd erupted in a euphoric sing-along. The setlist expertly balanced beloved classics and newer material, creating a shared experience for all in attendance. Parker Cannon’s emotive vocals commanded the stage as the crowd transformed into a unified choir, a sense of community rarely found at modern concerts. The band’s music effortlessly transported listeners back to a simpler time, solidifying their status as punk rock masters.
Finally, the pop punk legends that the sold out crowd had been waiting for. A Day to Remember wasted no time transforming the Eagles Ballroom into a chaotic, euphoric mosh pit. The band’s signature blend of pop-punk, metalcore, and pure unadulterated energy energized the crowd the moment they stepped on stage. With a setlist spanning their entire discography, ADTR delivered a relentless barrage of hits that had the entire venue jumping, singing, and losing their minds.
Classics like “Mr. Highway” and “2nd Sucks” sparked a frenzy of crowd surfing and circle pits, while newer tracks like “Resentment” proved that the band’s ability to create powerful anthems is as strong as ever. Jeremy McKinnon’s vocal range is nothing short of astonishing, effortlessly transitioning from guttural screams to soaring melodies. The rest of the band matched his intensity, creating a wall of sound that was truly exhilarating. Beyond the music, A Day to Remember’s live show is a spectacle.
The stage production, complete with blasts of smoke and confetti cannons, added to the overall chaos and excitement. The band’s connection with their fans is undeniable, and it’s clear that they genuinely love what they do. If you’re looking for a night of pure, unfiltered fun, an A Day to Remember show is an absolute must-see.
Photo Gallery : The Story So Far – The Rave (Eagles Ballroom) (07.26.2024)
Photo Gallery : Four Year Strong – The Rave (Eagles Ballroom) (07.26.2024)
Photo Gallery : Scowl – The Rave (Eagles Ballroom) (07.26.2024)
Photo Gallery : A Day To Remember – The Rave (Eagles Ballroom) (07.26.2024)
