Fresh off the release of their sixth studio album, American Candy, The Maine showcased their experience during an all-ages show supported by Real Friends, Knuckle Puck and The Technicolors.
The Technicolors — who had played with The Maine on a previous tour — were the rookies of the lineup. However, they performed with the energy and ferocity of touring veterans and are definitely a band to watch in the future. “Sweet Time†seemed to be a particular crowd favorite, and it made a lasting impression that set a high-energy precedent for the rest of the night.
Knuckle Puck, a band from Illinois, had the more chaotic fans of the bunch. During the group’s set, many people attempted to crowd surf before security guards abruptly put an end to it all.
Real Friends were a crowd pleaser, as lead singer Dan Lambton spoke bluntly with the crowd with no filter. Their set was the most amusing to watch, and their emo-punk sound resonated well with the mostly millennial crowd.
However, the crowd’s enthusiasm for The Maine was unparalleled, and the screams of several young teens proved this. Lead singer John O’Callaghan was equally talkative to the crowd, and devoted fans shouted back to him. He encouraged attendees to get to know one another.
The acoustic highlight of the night was “Into Your Arms,” where fans shouted along to every lyric. Their pop-punk sound was relatable to the swarm of teenagers, and even though John lamented his reservations at being 26, he proved that The Maine can still make music for younger generations.
Photos: The Maine at House of Blues San Diego
Photos: Real Friends at House of Blues San Diego
Photos: Knuckle Puck at House of Blues San Diego
Photos: The Technicolors at House of Blues San Diego
