Hawthorne Heights hit Stage AE with a nostalgic fury, celebrating two decades of emo anthems and heartbreak hymns. The 20 Years of Tears tour marks the monumental 20th anniversary of their debut album, “The Silence in Black and White,” a record that became a cornerstone for the MySpace generation and the Warped Tour scene. With a lineup that read like a who’s who of early 2000s emo and punk, the night was set to be an unforgettable trip down memory lane.

Opening the show, This Wild Life brought a softer, acoustic touch to the evening. Their heartfelt melodies and earnest lyrics resonated deeply with the crowd. Known for their emotional performances and intricate guitar work, the duo’s set was both intimate and powerful. Songs like “Positively Negative” and “No More Waiting” had fans singing along, swaying gently to the music. This Wild Life’s sincerity and connection with the audience set a poignant tone for the evening.

Next up was Stick To Your Guns, whose hardcore energy provided a sharp contrast to This Wild Life’s acoustic set. While their aggressive style might seem out of place in an emo lineup, vocalist Jesse Barnett’s declaration, “Emo doesn’t always mean crying; sometimes emo means yelling,” struck a chord with the audience. Their set was a whirlwind of powerful riffs and passionate screams, creating an intense atmosphere that had the crowd moshing and headbanging. The band’s raw energy and conviction added a unique and exhilarating dynamic to the night.

Armor For Sleep took the stage next, seamlessly transitioning the energy back to the melodic and emotional. Their set was a perfect blend of nostalgia and excitement, featuring classic tracks like “Car Underwater” and “The Truth About Heaven.” The band’s tight performance and emotional delivery had the crowd enthralled, singing every word with fervor. With headbanging and jumping galore, the energy kept rising, both amongst gans and the band themselves. Armor For Sleep’s music, with its themes of dreams and loss, resonated deeply, capturing the essence of the emo spirit.

Anberlin followed, bringing their distinctive blend of alternative rock and emo to the stage. With Matty Mullins of Memphis May Fire on vocals, fresh off their collaboration on Anberlin’s newest release, “Walk Alone,” Anberlin’s set was a highlight of the evening. Tracks like “Feel Good Drag” and “Impossible” showcased their musical prowess and emotional depth, while “Walk Alone” brought a fresh yet familiar sound. The audience was fully engaged, their voices rising in unison with the band. Anberlin’s set was a powerful reminder of their impact on the emo and alternative scenes.

Thursday had the penultimate set, and their performance was particularly special, as it coincided with Norman Brannon’s 50th birthday weekend. The band, recently re-energized by the release of their first new song in 13 years, “Application for Release from the Dream,” delivered a set that was both nostalgic and forward-looking. Classics like “Understanding in a Car Crash” mixed with their new material, creating an electrifying atmosphere. The crowd’s enthusiasm and the band’s heartfelt performance made this a memorable segment of the night.

Finally, Hawthorne Heights took the stage, and the excitement in the venue reached its peak. The emo legends played “The Silence in Black and White” in its entirety, a treat for fans who had been with them since the beginning. Between songs, they shared stories about their early days and the journey that brought them to this 20-year milestone. These anecdotes provided a personal touch, connecting the band even more deeply with their audience.

The set was a celebration of the MySpace generation, a time when bands and fans connected in ways that shaped a musical era. Hawthorne Heights’ performance was both a tribute to their roots and a testament to their enduring appeal. Tracks like “Ohio Is for Lovers” and “Niki FM” were met with overwhelming enthusiasm, transporting the audience back to their teenage years, both mentally and physically, with elder millennials jumping and moshing as if back at Warped Tour 2007. The band’s heartfelt delivery and genuine connection with the crowd made for an emotional and unforgettable experience.

The evening concluded with a sense of camaraderie and shared memories. The 20 Years of Tears tour not only celebrated Hawthorne Heights’ impressive career but also the lasting impact of the emo and punk scenes. Each band’s performance added a unique flavor to the night, creating a tapestry of sound and emotion that resonated deeply with everyone present. As the final notes faded, it was clear that this concert was more than just a trip down memory lane – it was a celebration of a musical community that continues to thrive and evolve.

July 14th, 2024