Last week, I had the tremendous honor of shooting a band that is near and dear to my heart for multiple reasons, New Found Glory. A late best friend was the biggest New Found Glory fan growing up. I credit him for my introduction and love of rock music, including my love for New Found Glory. There truly aren’t enough words for me to describe how much it meant for me to capture their show at House of Blues in Anaheim.
Opening the show were on-the-rise stars, Sincere Engineer. The name itself invokes curiosity; similar to the lengthy titles of former pop-punk and emo hits of yesteryear. The Chicago-based band definitely has bits and pieces of their hometown sound evident in their songs. Juxtaposed with New Found Glory’s Florida-based appeal and the overall feeling of nostalgia was a welcome blend of old school pop-punk and the wave of this new sound. The blend of sounds mimics quite faithfully the growth of this particular scene: from angsty teenage love to something a bit more mature and seasoned. Sincere Engineer did not disappoint this evening with an attention grabbing performance. They set the stage for this very special 20th anniversary performance — extremely well.
Playing the Catalyst album in its entirety was a treat in itself for the sold out crowd of fans both old and new. Kicking off their set with “Intro,” whipping the crowd into a frenzy of pure nostalgia. I, like many others in the crowd, were transported back in time. A time when many of us hardly had a worry or care in the world. The band relishing off the crowds energy and vice versa, this being poignant during “Truth Of My Own,” which is without a doubt an anthem.
Never missing a beat, the crowd was at their beck and call. Not a single note missed, nor a single lyric. A stand out moment was when they jumped into “I’d Kill To Fall Asleep” — a rarity and definitely a huge treat for all in attendance. The pure energy and love being showered on the band was felt throughout the venue. No doubt, I felt my best friend with me in spirit — which made it all the more special for me. It is a night I will cherish for a lifetime.
GALLERY: New Found Glory at House of Blues in Anaheim (October 17, 2024)
