Thursday took center stage at the Roxian to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their iconic album, “War All the Time.” As pioneers of post-hardcore, Thursday’s influence has resonated through the years, drawing a diverse crowd eager to relive the intensity of their groundbreaking work. The anticipation in the air was palpable as fans awaited a night of nostalgia and musical prowess.

Kicking off the night was Many Eyes, a new band made up of some familiar faces. The brainchild of Every Time I Die vocalist Keith Buckley and the phenomenal sibling duo of Nick and Charlie Bellmore, who have worked with both Dee Snyder and Jamey Jasta, the talent behind Many Eyes is exceptional. And the results exceed all expectations. The raw energy and intricate guitar riffs were unmatched, and the catchy melodies got everyone headbanging to match the hard and heavy jams. With just a few singles released, Many Eyes treated everyone to several unreleased tracks from their upcoming album, and each one was better than the last. If the album is half as good as the live performance, then it’ll be an easy 10/10. Many Eyes have a very bright future ahead of them.

Following an incredible opener, Rival Schools brought a different flavor to the stage. A hardcore supergroup made up of members from iconic 80’s and 90’s hardcore bands like Gorilla Biscuits and Youth of Today, Rival Schools has that old-school hardcore feel with a more modern edge. With their melodic blend of alt rock and post-hardcore, they delivered a set that seamlessly transitioned between moments of introspection and explosive energy. Rival Schools’ tight instrumentation and emotionally charged lyrics resonated deeply with fans, creating an atmosphere of unity and shared musical appreciation.

As the crowd buzzed with anticipation, the lights dimmed, and Thursday took the stage to a roar of cheers and shouts. The band wasted no time delving into the anthems that defined a generation. Geoff Rickly’s vocals soared through the venue, carrying the weight of two decades of musical legacy. The chemistry among band members was palpable, creating a magnetic connection that transcended the stage and enveloped everyone in a sonic embrace.

Throughout their set, Thursday gave life to their iconic album, “War All The Time,” celebrating it’s 20th anniversary by performing the album in entirety. The crowd mirrored the band’s intensity, with fans passionately singing along to every word.

With non-stop moshing and crowd surfing, everyone was clearly excited to experience an album that many have been rocking out to for two decades. The Roxian was electric as Thursday rounded off the main set with, not a song from “War All The Time”, but Jet Black New Year, or as Rickley referred to it: “Tomorrow I’ll Be You part two.” A fitting way to send off “War All The Time.”

The encore featured a mix of fan favourites, leaving fans both satisfied and yearning for more. As the lights dimmed and the echoes of the final notes lingered, it was clear that Thursday’s performance had not only celebrated a milestone but had also reignited the flame of passion for their timeless music, a passion that started for many 20 years ago with the very album being celebrated.

The entire night was a testament to the enduring power of Thursday’s music. From the energetic performances of Many Eyes and Rival Schools to the emotional journey crafted by Thursday, the night showcased the diverse facets of the post-hardcore genre. The 20th-anniversary celebration of War All the Time was not just a concert; it was a communal experience that transcended generations, reminding everyone present of the timeless impact of music that resonates with the soul.

January 28th, 2024