TBS Rocks it Louder Now with
Head Automatica, the Subways and Angels and Airwaves
Pompano Beach Amphitheater | July 12th, 2006
By Leah Pritchett
Muddy feet, soaking rain, overwhelming humidity and expensive food, colored the Taking Back Sunday's "Louder Now Tour." They brought along fellow New York natives Head Automatica, U.K. favorites The Subways, and one of the newest fanatical crazes taking over America, from the rocking waves of California, Angels and Airwaves.
After waiting an hour, the show didn't start until 7, making the crowd rather frustrated and displeased with the concert's lack of coordination. In addition, the opening act was handed down to Head Automatica, which upset many fans of The Subways because their set was canceled for no particular reason.
Not a massive crowd but a very settled one began to dance to hit songs like "Graduation Day," from their new album Popaganda, and "Beating Heart Baby" from their 2004 album, Decadence. I wasn't blown away by their performance; it was rather tedious with little enthusiasm. Being a fan of this band, I was really disappointed.
Following Head Automatica was Angels and Airwaves. The crowd was insanely passionate, singing along to every tune they performed. To me, their music was extremely dull; it seemed that every song had the same intolerable beat over and over. But they had stage presence, which was accentuated by the amazing light display, and they interacted well with the fans. It was very well received, cherished by many including myself, since most bands don't have that special connection with the crowd.
When 9:20 hit the clock, I was in for a treat, with a chanting crowd roaring TBS as the lights glistened across the stage. In excitement, I was wondering how this band would sound live and if they would potentially have that special bond AVA had with the crowd. But all doubts were washed away when bass player Matt Rubano hit the stage, followed by Fred Mascherino (guitar), Eddie Reyes (guitar), Mark O'Connell (drums) and front man Adam Lazzara.
Taking Back Sunday opened their set with new song "What It Feels Like To Be A Ghost," from their latest album, Louder Now. Adam's amazing vocals flowed perfectly with the beating of drums, rocking tunes from both Rey's and Connell's guitars. Explosive renditions of songs like "Spin," "Miami" and "MakeDamnSure" had the fans moshing their way to where they could get the best view of this kickass band; their intense vibe made goosebumps DANCE down my back.
Awestruck fans enjoyed tracks from TBS' previous albums, Tell Your Friends and Where You Want to Be. Their bonding with the fans was unbelievable. The huge venue didn't seem to matter; you felt as though they were playing the show just for you. Each member crossed the stage making sure they'd eye every fan in sight.
Overall, the show wasn't precisely the best I've been to, but it was worth all the mud, sweat and stench the crowd created, just to see mind-blowing Taking Back Sunday. Florida welcomed them with arms wide open and we hope to have them back. So if you want to make a long trip across the states to see TBS, you can check out their official webpage for tour dates at www.takingbacksunday.com.
Email Leah your thoughts: outloud@outloud.com
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