Taking Back Sunday
Live at Slam Dunk 2012 on Saturday, 26th May 2012
The sun started to set over Leeds University Union as hoards of sweaty, sun burnt show goers made their way into the main room. The sticky floor along with the cluster of clammy frames didn't allow this to happen with ease. Before long, the Atticus Jagermeister stage was heaving to see New York headliners Taking Back Sunday.
The band has been a significant part of my music library since I was seventeen years old. They're one of those bands which you think you're never going to see live and so when the opportunity arises you saviour it.
I wouldn't expect anything less from the Slam Dunk headliner; it was exactly what you want from TBS. The band entered the stage. High pitched shrieking and bellowing roars filled the room. Adam Lazarra's overzealous performance got the crowd into a frenzy. His position as front man meant that he could be as rebellious as he pleased; climbing off stage onto the barriers where he was clawed at by hundreds on the front row. He then continued to make his way upstairs to the balcony where he leant over, suspending himself above screaming, sweaty fans. Six security personnel surrounded the crazed American rock star, fearing for his life.
The set, which lasted over an hour, saw the band play an assortment of songs, coming from their albums Louder Now, Where You Want to Be and Tell All Your Friends. I could never tell you my favourite because I love a combination of songs from each.
John Nolan's perfectly timed backing vocals were a tribute to Adam Lazarra's position as front man. Lead guitarist Nolan, treated us to "the best damn rock and roll riff you'll ever hear" before Lazarra bellowed out the lyrics to What it Feels Like to Be a Ghost. Liar was included in the set list, as well as, You Know How I Do, Timberwolves at New Jersey and You're So Last Summer; all the favourites. Not all vocal melodies were spot on but then again, it's what you expect from a band playing live to thousands. Knowing the words and achieving a sing-along was enough for me.
The set ended with MakeDamnSure; the absolute perfect tune to end the evening. There was no encore which was a bit disappointing; however, there was no room for feelings of dissatisfaction from the day that I had just had.
