July 25, 2024
Concert Review
By: Brian: Photographer/Writer
It was a hot and steamy evening at The Back Alley at Creekside in Knoxville,TN, as Filthy Nasty Productions pulled out all the stops for the Hawthorne Heights-20 Years of Tears tour. This unforgettable night featured a stellar lineup, including Hawthorne Heights, Thursday, Anberlin, Armor For Sleep, Stick to Your Guns, and This Wild Life.
The air was thick with anticipation as fans gathered to witness this monumental celebration of two decades of emo and post-hardcore music, each band bringing their unique energy and passion to the stage. From the nostalgic anthems of Hawthorne Heights to the raw intensity of Stick to Your Guns, it was a night that left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
This Wild Life
As the crowd buzzed with excitement, This Wild Life stepped onto the stage, ready to blow everyone away with their acoustic rock. Known for their real, heartfelt lyrics and stripped-down sound, this duo has found a special place in fans’ hearts. Their live shows are full of energy and emotion, with songs that make you feel every word. When they start playing, the audience is pulled into their world of raw feelings and amazing music, showing why This Wild Life is a band you can’t miss.
This Wild Life, an acoustic duo from Long Beach, California, has been making waves since 2010. Consisting of Kevin Jordan and Anthony Del Grosso, the band stands out in the pop-punk genre with their unique acoustic sound. Initially part of a traditional pop-punk band, they decided to strip down their music, focusing on heartfelt lyrics and intimate performances.
Despite their acoustic approach, This Wild Life retains the energy and passion of pop-punk. Their stripped-down style proves that heavy distortion and loud drums aren’t necessary to make an impact. Instead, their music highlights the beauty of simplicity and emotional depth. For fans of acoustic music and heartfelt lyrics, This Wild Life is a band worth listening to. Their ability to turn personal experiences into relatable songs makes them stand out. Whether you’re facing tough times or just need soothing tunes, This Wild Life offers a comforting and inspiring soundtrack to life’s ups and downs.
This Wild Life Members:
Setlist:
Concrete
Positively Negative
History
Cute Without The “E”
Catie Rae
Ripped Away
No More Waiting
Connect with This Wild Life:
Stick to Your Guns
Stick to Your Guns hit the stage next with their explosive energy and powerful lyrics. The crowd quickly moved forward so they wouldn’t miss any of it. This hardcore punk band has a reputation for delivering high-octane performances that are as intense as they are inspiring. With blistering guitar riffs, thunderous drums, and vocals that scream passion and defiance, Stick to Your Guns never fails to electrify the audience. Get ready to feel the raw power and unstoppable spirit that only Stick to Your Guns can bring!
Stick to Your Guns is a hardcore punk band that has been making waves in the music scene since 2003. Formed in Orange County, California, this group is known for their powerful music and meaningful lyrics. The band consists of Jesse Barnett on vocals, Chris Rawson and Josh James on guitars, Andrew Rose on bass, and Adam Galindo on drums.
Their music is a blend of aggressive punk and melodic hardcore, creating a unique sound that sets them apart from other bands. With influences ranging from punk to metal, Stick to Your Guns delivers high-energy performances that captivate their audiences. Their songs often tackle important social issues, such as mental health, personal struggles, and social justice, resonating deeply with their fans.
Known for their passionate live shows, Stick to Your Guns brings an intense energy to the stage, making their concerts unforgettable experiences. They have toured extensively around the world, building a loyal fan base that connects with their message of resilience and empowerment.
In a world where it can be easy to lose sight of what matters, Stick to Your Guns reminds us all to hold on to our values and fight for what we believe in. Their music is not just a soundtrack; it’s a call to action for anyone looking to make a difference. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their music, Stick to Your Guns is a band worth listening to!!
Stick To Your Guns Members:
Jesse Barnett – Vocals
Chris Rawson – Guitar
Josh James – Guitar
Andrew Rose – Bass
Adam Galindo – Drums
Setlist:
Nobody
Weapon
Empty Heads
Inviible Rain
Nothing You Can Do To Me
Such Pain
Amber
Against Them All
Armor for Sleep
Up next on the stage was none other than Armor for Sleep, the iconic band that has been a mainstay in the emo and alternative rock scenes for years. With their signature blend of introspective lyrics and powerful melodies, Armor for Sleep gave the crowd everything they had, delivering a performance that was as emotionally charged as it was musically captivating. From the first chord to the final note, the band’s energy and passion were undeniable, leaving the audience in awe and craving more.
Armor for Sleep is a band that made a big impact on the emo rock scene in the early 2000s. Formed in 2001 in New Jersey, the band is known for their emotional lyrics and powerful sound. The group includes Ben Jorgensen (vocals and guitar), PJ DeCicco (guitar), Anthony Dilonno (bass), and Nash Breen (drums).
Although the band went on hiatus in 2009, their music continues to resonate with fans old and new. They briefly reunited in 2012 for some shows and again in 2020 to celebrate the 15th anniversary of What to Do When You Are Dead.
Armor for Sleep’s music captures the struggles and dreams of a generation, making them a timeless band in the emo rock genre. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering them for the first time, their powerful lyrics and dynamic sound are sure to leave an impression.
Armor For Sleep Members:
Ben Jorgensen – Vocals and Guitar
PJ DeCicco – Guitar
Anthony Dilonno – Bass
Nash Breen – Drums
Setlist:
Remember to Feel Real
Dream to Make Believe
In Another Dream
In This Nightmare Together
The More You Talk the Less I Hear
The Truth About Heaven
Car Underwater
Anberlin
As the lights dimmed and the anticipation reached its peak, Anberlin burst onto the stage, wasting no time in igniting the crowd’s energy. Though many in the audience felt the absence of Christian’s iconic presence, Matty Mullins of Memphis May Fire fame stepped in and delivered an electrifying performance that left no doubt about his prowess. The entire band was on fire, seamlessly blending their passionate sound with the raw power of Mullins’ vocals, creating a night of unforgettable music and electrifying moments.
Formed in Winter Haven, Florida, in 2002, Anberlin quickly ascended from local favorites to internationally recognized stars. Their debut album, Blueprints for the Black Market (2003), set the stage with catchy hooks and introspective lyrics.
Anberlin’s impact on rock and alternative scenes is undeniable, inspiring countless artists with their blend of introspective lyrics and powerful music. Their legacy is one of authenticity and depth, providing a soundtrack for a generation navigating life’s complexities.
Today, Anberlin continues to captivate audiences with live performances and hints at new music. Their steadfast dedication to their craft serves as a reminder of the timeless power of honest, heartfelt music, ensuring their place in rock history. Whether for long-time fans or newcomers, Anberlin’s music offers a profound and enduring connection.
Anberlin Band Members:
Matt Mullins – Vocals
Joseph Milligan – Guitar
Christian McAlhaney – Guitar
Deon Rexroat – Bass
Nathan Young – Drums
Setlist:
The Resistance
Never Take Friendship Personal
Two Graves
Impossible
A Day Late
Dismantle.Repair.
Walk Alone
Paperthin Hymn
Godspeed
Feel Good Drag
Thursday
The anticipation was over as Thursday prepared to rock the crowd. As they stepped on stage, the music quietly built up and the lights were low. Then, with a burst of energy, the guitar launched into a heavy riff, and everyone’s hands flew up. The crowd was ready to rock and so was the band!
Singer Geoff Rickly was a whirlwind of energy, jumping around like he was ready to leap into the audience. His stage presence was off the charts!! The band members shared his enthusiasm, their faces lit up with joy at being there.
Thursday, a band from New Brunswick, New Jersey, emerged in 1997 and quickly became pivotal in the post-hardcore scene. Formed by vocalist Geoff Rickly, guitarist Tom Keeley, bassist Tim Payne, and drummer Tucker Rule, their debut album Waiting (1999) set the stage for their influential career.
In 2011, Thursday announced an indefinite hiatus, leading fans to reflect on their impact. The band’s reunion in 2016 reaffirmed their relevance and influence, reminding audiences of their unparalleled live energy and emotional depth.
Thursday’s legacy extends beyond their music; they played a crucial role in bringing post-hardcore to a wider audience and influenced countless bands. Their willingness to tackle personal and political themes with honesty set a standard in the genre. Today, Thursday remains a beacon of authenticity, innovation, and emotional resonance in music.
Thursday Band Members:
Geoff Rickly – Vocals
Steve Pedulla– Guitar
Norman Brannon-Guitar
Stu Richardson – Bass
Tucker Rule – Drums
Setlist:
The Other Side of the Crash/Over and Out (of Control)
Cross Out the Eyes
Signals Over the Air
Standing on the Edge of Summer
Jet Black New Year
This Song Brought to You by a Falling Bomb
Fast to the End
Application for Release From the Dream
Running From the Rain
Paris in Flames
Understanding in a Car Crash
War All the Time
Hawthorne Heights
As the sky grew darker at the outdoor venue, the air temperature seemed to cool down, but not the audience. The energy level was steadily increasing, and the crowd was buzzing with excitement, ready for Hawthorne Heights to take the stage. Known for their emo rock anthems and powerful live performances, this band has a way of connecting with their fans like no other.
When the band finally hit the stage, JT Woodruff was bursting with energy, jumping up and down and clearly having a great time. The entire band was electric, delivering exactly what the crowd had hoped for. It was a night filled with high-octane performances and unforgettable moments.
Hawthorne Heights, the iconic post-hardcore band from Dayton, Ohio, is celebrating a major milestone with their “Twenty Years of Tears” tour. For the past two decades, they have touched the hearts of fans around the world with their emotional lyrics and powerful melodies.
Formed in 2001, Hawthorne Heights quickly gained fame with their debut album, The Silence in Black and White, in 2004. This album featured hits like “Ohio Is for Lovers” and “Niki FM,” which became anthems for a generation of fans. Their music blends melodic guitar riffs with passionate vocals, known for its raw emotion.
The band has faced challenges, including the tragic loss of guitarist Casey Calvert in 2007. Despite this, Hawthorne Heights has continued to create music that deeply resonates with listeners, turning pain into powerful songs.
The “Twenty Years of Tears” tour celebrates everything Hawthorne Heights has achieved over the last 20 years. The tour promises an emotional journey through the band’s extensive discography, featuring songs from their early days to their more recent releases.
Hawthorne Heights Members:
T Woodruff – Vocals, Guitar
Matt Ridenour – Bass
Mark McMillon – Guitar
Chris Popadak – Drums
Setlist:
Life on Standby
Dissolve and Decay
Niki FM
The Transition
Blue Burns Orange
Silver Bullet
Screenwriting an Apology
Ohio Is For Lovers
Wake Up Call
Sandpaper and Silk
Speeding Up the Octaves
The tour isn’t just about celebrating the band’s past. It’s also about honoring the fans who have supported them through thick and thin. Hawthorne Heights has always had a close relationship with their audience, often interacting with fans on social media and at concerts. The “Twenty Years of Tears” tour is a thank you to everyone who has been part of their journey.
As they embark on this landmark tour, Hawthorne Heights continues to write new music and push the boundaries of their genre. Whether you’ve been a fan since the beginning or are just discovering their music, the “Twenty Years of Tears” tour is an event you won’t want to miss.
Hawthorne Heights:
Thursday:
Anberlin:
Armor for Sleep:
Stick to Your Guns:
This Wild Life:
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