adminJimmy Eat World @ Newcastle O2 Academy, January 30 2019
Taking time out from a supporting act slot with Frank Carter, Jimmy Eat World took fans on an exhilarating greatest hits journey spanning their entire back catalogue.
The fact that this was the second of only two headline shows in the UK is a crying shame. The crowd reaction here should have provided evidence enough that Jim Adkins and co. are more than just an early noughties band still riding an emo/pop punk wave.
And the US stars should also be commended on the modest price of entry – especially in an era of £100-plus stadium shows.
With a career spanning nine albums (most recent release Integrity Blues, an absolute barnstormer) there was something for everyone.
Pulling material from their underrated Futures album as well as Damage and Chase This Light, the more popular releases from Bleed American were held back for the grand finale.
Before rolling out the big guns, the atmospheric and slower paced Polaris, Pass The Baby, Hear You Me and 23 showcased the craftsmanship gained from nearly three decades of playing together.
And it’s difficult to stress just how packed the floor became by the end of the night. Sardines couldn’t have been much closer. Testament to a band that has adapted to stay relevant or more a result of limited solo dates forcing fans from far and wide to pack one night?
The answer may well be both judging by the raucous reception the Phoenix quintet received throughout the encore.
A Praise Chorus, Sweetness and The Middle maxed out noise levels as the 30-somethings recaptured their teenage years, singing every word in perfect unison.
Sometimes you don’t need over the top crowd interaction or demanding mosh pits to enjoy a gig. Some damn good music played by a band that knows their music and the fans they play for will do. Jimmy Eat World, thankfully, have both.
Andy Spoors
Images by Adam Kennedy