Photo Credit: Chris Brown
Words by Aylise Bailey
Whilst waiting outside of the venue before doors opened, the streets of Stockton were already packed with fans on their way to the show, and the queues were as far as eye could see. Lots of dedicated fans were wearing their merch – old and new – and excitedly talking about their setlist predictions and other band conversation.
The design of The Globe is spectacular, with its semi-circle structure providing quality vocals to all areas, meaning there are no bad spots or seats.
JON MAHON was working the decks as the doors opened, greeting people with a great medley of pop-punk classics to get the crowd hyped. His commentary in intermissions helped to provide an immersive experience, and kept everyone in the loop with stage times.
The night was kicked off by Florida’s own MAGNOLIA PARK, who brought the lights down low, but had the bass pumping, encouraging some impressive mosh pits! The whole band were on top performance, and the stage presence was incredible. Frontman Joshua Roberts was meeting some of the early crowd surfers with smiles and high fives. Magnolia Park even had something for the Disney fans in the crowd when they performed their insane cover of ‘I 2 I‘ from the popular noughties film ‘A Goofy Movie‘.
Next up were WHEATUS, who garnered instant attention and excitement from the crowd. The whole venue was captivated by the impressive vocals of Brendan B. Brown in his cover of The Darkness’ ‘Growing On Me‘. Brown hit the Hawkins level high notes with ease, and earned the cheers he got in response. The crowd was already really moving by the end of the first song, eager to hear more. The band gave us some exciting news of their upcoming UK tour, with dates TBC. There was some playful pranks between band members, which was hilarious to see, as well as the upbeat energy they all seemed to have. It’s evident the band love performing, and gave it their all, especially with their most iconic hit ‘Teenage Dirtbag‘.
When it was time for BOWLING FOR SOUP to enter, we were gifted one of their infamous and hilarious animated video backdrops, to countdown their arrival on the stage. Whilst Chris Burney retired from the band recently, he was still very much included in the bands videos and conversation, showing how important he is to them. The first track was ‘Almost‘, and the crowd were giving it their all. BFS instantly brought their usual vibrancy to Stockton, as we have come to expect and love.
Crowd interaction and noise levels throughout are testament to the dedication and love for the band, and the songs that have shaped formative years for so many – be it with their opening sequence for TV show ‘Phineas & Ferb‘, or their certified bangers such as ‘1985‘ and ‘High-school Never Ends‘. Overall, BFS once again managed to instil joy and happiness into the fans through music, comedy and heartfelt conversation. Frontman Jaret Reddick is known for his open approach to mental health, both on-stage and online, which is commendable and inspiring for so many who have gotten through hard times with the bands music.
We wish them the very best on the rest of their tour, and as always, eagerly await their next one in the UK.
Taped Magazine 