Lights up. Monty Are I walks onto the stage, then the crowd goes nuts. This was a hometown show for the guys, and a friendly crowd, but they still played like they were trying to win everyone over for the first time. Every ounce of energy they had was left on the stage. It was a great set, they sounded great. Each time I see them play, I keep waiting for someone to get knocked out by all the brass swinging around.

We missed seeing Amber Pacific during the Warped Tour 2007, so I'm glad we had another chance to catch them. They are touring in support of their second album Truth in Sincerity. They are a really fun band to watch because they are such enthusiastic performers on stage. Their performance was solid.

Yellowcard was up next. They blew me away. It's so cool watching them on stage blending violin into their brand of alternative punk. Their sound translates so well in their recordings, like their most recent album Paper Walls, and live... it's just such a special experience. Be sure to check them out on their upcoming tour with Blue October.

Sum 41 was awesome. They have so much charisma and energy on stage, and are very talented performers. They were the most difficult band to photograph because they are just so lively on stage.

During their set, they pulled a couple young fans from the audience to sit on stage during a song. The gesture brought one of them to tears. I'm sure it was an experience that these kids will reminisce about for the rest of their lives.

This was a great night to see a show. The house was packed and the crowd was amped. I keep writing this over and over, but I feel like I leave many of these shows with such incredible and positive experiences. It keeps reminding me of just how important it is to keep supporting the bands you love, so they can keep coming back and putting on some kick-ass shows... just like tonight.

| 09.10.2007 | Review by Kristen Pierson |