18/03/2014

Fall Out Boy, Birmingham NIA 16/03/2014 | Gig Review




This ain't a scene it's a goddamn arena tour. Sure Fall Out Boy's hiatus may have lasted four years but it appears that this has by no means dulled the pop-punk titans pulling power. 12,700 fans flood into the sold out NIA all ready to save rock and roll and witness one of the most anticipated tours of 2014. Needless to say this band certainly know how to make an entrance. Clad in balaclavas and flags in hand they storm on stage to the antagonistic sounds of "The Phoenix."  The seething back beat, building gang vocals and roaring lyrics fill every inch of the arena with ease. As the masks come off however so do any pretence that this band would rest on their laurels.

"Death Valley" blasts quirky riffs with gusto as the powerhouse vocals by Patrick practically rip into the crowd before them. Similarly "Alone Together" spotlights Joe Trohman's prowess in a maddening guitar solo that really enhances this captivating track. Of course there had to be a nod to the songs that made them the household name that they are today. "Dance, Dance" and "Sugar, We're Goin Down" mark the absolute skyward trajectory of their career as every word is sung back with all the enthusiasm it was given in its first release and then some. "Beat it" however was a surprise to the set list yet the rock rendition proved just as authoritative as their own renowned material.

In a total of 19 songs the Chicago quartet has seamlessly shown the spectrum of their legacy. From being the literal definition of emo's biggest success stories, to the slick megastar defenders of pop-punk, their growth is astounding. The hiatus has probably been the smartest move they've made as it's evident by the grins on their faces they have rediscovered their love of music once more. And by way of tonight's reaction any notion that this band are just a bunch of sell outs has been dropped in an instant. Thanks for the memories Fall Out Boy and here's to many more to come in the future.

                                                                                                                        10/10    

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