The Story So Far - O2 Institute, Birmingham 01.11.2024
The Story So Far
Angel Dust
It’s Friday night in Birmingham and California based Pop Punk giants The Story So Far are in town, what a treat it promises to be! They are joined by Angel Dust, who are getting the night underway for us.
I didn’t know much about Angel Dust before tonight. Some last minute research before the gig told me that they are made up of members from Turnstile and Trapped Under Ice, and that raised my expectations instantly! They didn’t disappoint either, as the energy is 0-100 real quick. For me personally, this is my first gig in nearly 10 months, and they are a very good first band to jump back in with indeed. Opening tracks 'Toxic Boombox' and 'Space Jam' set the tempo, and it doesn't slow down from there. As far as opening bands go they absolutely did their job of warming up the crowd. The bass player who goes by the name 'Ghosttribe' particularly caught my eye, as he was just such a joy to photograph - so much energy. Angel Dust are certainly one I'll be looking out for in future.
With it being just a 2 band show this evening that means it's time for the headliners, as the Story So Far take to stage. They waste no time in getting into the new material as they open with the massive single 'Big Blind' from the new album. 'Proper Dose' was possibly my favourite album released in 2018, it's still on frequent rotation in my playlists and is always being played at full blast in the summertime especially. So it's no surprise that a lot of the highlights of the setlist for me are songs off of that album. I was in the photo pit for 'Out of It' and couldn't help sing along all the way through.
Frontman Parker Cannon has a Liam Gallagher vibe of sorts about him. Tonight he's wearing a large trench coat, and he's performing largely with his hands in his pockets and he's fixed mostly in one position on the stage - he doesn't need to move about much, he has this massive presence and aura about him that comes so effortlessly. Besides, his bandmembers make up for the lack of movement as they are whizzing around the stage non-stop.
Things get slowed down slightly with 'Upside Down' before picking back up again with my personal favourite 'Keep This Up', and judging by the rest of the crowds reaction its many other people's favourites as well! I've got to say i've been really impressed by the Story So Far tonight, they exceeded any expectations I had for them and that's with me already anticipating something really special. I don't know if it has something to do with the fact I haven't been to a gig for a number of months as I've previously mentioned but tonight will leave a lasting memory on me.
After the encore we are treated to closing songs 'White Shores' before finally bringing the house down with 'Nerve'. It's more than safe to say I was wowed tonight. I'm already eager to see them again, tonight has really struck a chord with me. If you haven't seen the Story So Far live, do yourself a favour and put that right!
Angel Dust
Photos & Review - Sam Robinson Photography
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