The Maine and Taking Back Sunday
The Complex // Salt Lake City, UT // May 2nd, 2019
Photos and review by Rachel Leonard
Taking Back Sunday is arguably one of the most recognizable names in the alternative rock scene. From their start in 1999, they’ve managed to create an impressive catalog of music and attract hundreds of thousands of fans. In celebration of the band’s twentieth anniversary, Taking Back Sunday embarked on a year-long world tour where they’ll perform their debut album, Tell All Your Friends, in full and other songs from their extensive catalog. Fans in Salt Lake City were clearly excited, as the limited two-night appearance sold out quickly and fans were lined up for hours before doors even opened.
Starting off night one was The Maine, five musicians from Arizona fresh off the release of their seventh LP, You Are OK. Their setlist spanned their entire twelve-year career featuring songs from every album, and the crowd knew every word. Frontman John O’Callaghan did an excellent job keeping the crowd engaged, and the band’s energetic and highly animated performance made for a memorable set.
After a quick break, Taking Back Sunday took the stage and started straight into their first song, “You Know How I Do,” and every person in the room began to scream the lyrics back. The entire set consisted of exceptionally high energy from every band member and several fans did their best to get close to the action by crowd surfing to the front. Fans were thrilled to hear the band’s second album Where You Want To Be, as well, thanks to the result of the pre-show coin toss featuring a specially-made coin for this tour.
However, one of the most memorable parts of the night was seeing the clear and inevitable impact Taking Back Sunday has had on their fans. Many were wearing nostalgic merchandise and others had brought along their entire family so they experience this memorable tour together. It was clear that this band has made its mark on thousands of people and that they don’t have any plans on slowing down.
