On August 20th, 2024, The Gaslight Anthem returned to the stage for their History Books tour, fittingly, at The Anthem. Known for their storytelling reminiscent of Bruce Springsteen and their blend of punk and folk rock, the band had been on hiatus since 2015, with a brief reunion in 2018. The crowd was electric, eagerly anticipating their first album since reuniting. The question on everyone’s mind was: How would the new material mesh with their classic sound?
The Anthem was the perfect setting for their raw energy. The open pit and opera-like balconies offered fans ample space to connect with the performance, with everyone from teenagers to baby boomers in attendance—a testament to the band’s enduring appeal. The atmosphere crackled with excitement, built up by stellar performances from the openers, Pinkshift and Joyce Manor. A minor gripe was the late start due to two openers, but The Gaslight Anthem more than made up for the wait.
Pinkshift, a young band formed in 2019 at Johns Hopkins, ignited the stage with their youthful energy and punk sound. Their presence felt like a perfect lead-in for Joyce Manor and the headliner. Joyce Manor kept the energy high with fan favorites like “Beach Community” and “The Jerk.” Despite a brief stumble during “NBTSA,” they finished strong, leaving the crowd primed for The Gaslight Anthem.
Finally, at 10 p.m., The Gaslight Anthem kicked off their set with “American Slang,” instantly captivating the crowd. They followed with “45” and “High Lonesome,” further fueling the sing-alongs and dancing. Their raw sound filled The Anthem, each guitar note perfectly complementing Brian Fallon’s vocals. With “Autumn” and “The Spirit of Jazz,” the mood shifted, showcasing the band’s softer, storytelling side. However, it was “History Books,” the title track from their new album, that stole the show. The crowd’s reaction was a mix of curiosity and enthusiasm, hinting at the song’s future as a fan favorite. As the night continued, Fallon’s stage presence shone. He engaged with the crowd, sharing jokes and reflections, giving the night a personal touch. Deeper cuts like “Little Fires” and “Michigan, 1975” showcased the band’s range. They even threw in a cover of Billie Eilish’s “Ocean Eyes,” a surprise that delighted the audience.
The finale was explosive, with hits like “Mulholland Drive” and “The Patient Ferris Wheel” having everyone on their feet. By the time they ended with “The ’59 Sound,” the entire venue was buzzing. They even treated the crowd to unplanned encores like “Howl” and “Blue Dahlia,” making the setlist even more special.
The Gaslight Anthem’s performance was unforgettable. They masterfully balanced their new material with older classics, keeping the energy high throughout. Their show at The Anthem erased any doubts about their reunion–The Gaslight Anthem is back, and their fans eagerly await what’s next.
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