Summer nights are made for outdoor concerts, and on a warm evening in Camden, NJ, fans gathered at the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion for a memorable show featuring two iconic bands: Third Eye Blind and Yellowcard. The Summer Gods Tour promised a night of nostalgia and high energy, and it certainly delivered.
The evening kicked off with an electrifying set from opening act, Arizona. The band’s blend of indie rock and pop vibes set the perfect tone for the night ahead. Their energetic performance had the crowd on their feet from the first note, drawing in even those who may have been unfamiliar with their music. Standout songs from Arizona’s set included “Oceans Away” and “Electric Touch,” each showcasing the band’s unique sound and strong stage presence. The audience was captivated, singing along and dancing to the infectious beats.
As the sun began to set, Yellowcard took the stage to a roaring applause. The crowd erupted with excitement as the opening chords of “Ocean Avenue” filled the amphitheater, immediately transporting everyone back to the early 2000s. The band’s energy was infectious as they tore through their setlist, playing fan favorites like “Only One” and “Lights and Sounds.” Yellowcard’s performance was a perfect blend of nostalgia and raw energy, with lead singer Ryan Key’s vocals soaring over the cheering crowd. Sean Mackin dazzled on the violin as always, something that has always separated Yellowcard from the rest since the beginning of their time. Blending pop punk and rock with the unexpected, yet perfectly fused element of the violin truly defines Yellowcard as one of the most influential pop punk bands of all time.
As the headliners of the evening, Third Eye Blind took the stage amidst a sea of cheers and applause. The band wasted no time diving into their set, opening with hits like “Motorcycle Drive By” and “Never Let You Go” prompting the crowd to sing along at the top of their lungs. Frontman Stephan Jenkins exuded charisma and charm, engaging with the audience in between songs and sharing anecdotes about the band’s journey over the years. The band’s performance was dynamic and engaging, with each member bringing their unique energy to the stage. Towards the end of the night the band changed up the stage setting, creating an intimate atmosphere to play unplugged. They performed acoustic songs like “The Backfire” and “Blinded (When I See You)” as the crowd began a sing along to those beautiful melodies. As the night drew to a close, Third Eye Blind closed out their set with an encore of “How’s It Going to Be” that left the crowd wanting more. The energy in the amphitheater was electric, with fans of all ages coming together to celebrate the music that has survived decades.
The Summer Gods Tour featuring Third Eye Blind and Yellowcard was truly a night to remember. From Arizona’s opening set to the Y2K nostalgia of Yellowcard and the timeless hits of Third Eye Blind, the evening was a perfect blend of energy and emotion. As the lights dimmed and the last chords faded away, the crowd left the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion with smiles on their faces and memories that will live on forever. If you have the chance to catch a show from these iconic bands, don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the magic of live music in all its glory. Remaining dates are below:
THIRD EYE BLIND, YELLOWCARD & ARIZONA – JULY 12, 2024 – FREEDOM MORTGAGE PAVILION (CAMDEN, NJ)
