Yellowcard•Mayday Parade•Anberlin•August 6, 2023•USANA Amphitheatre
Reviewed and Photographed by Jenica Schulz
The summer air was electric with anticipation as fans gathered at USANA Amphitheatre for a night that would surely be etched into their memories forever. The occasion? A triumphant reunion of bands that once ruled the early 2000s music scene: Anberlin, Mayday Parade, and the long-awaited return of Yellowcard.
For those who have been following Yellowcard’s journey, the night held an extra layer of significance. It had been six years since the band had graced the stage together, bidding their fans farewell during an emotional farewell tour. And now, after a serendipitous reconnection at the 2022 Riot Fest in Chicago, the band members had reignited their passion for performing and embarked on a U.S. tour to celebrate their monumental album, “Ocean Avenue.”
The anticipation was palpable as the lights dimmed, and the stage was set for Yellowcard’s return. The crowd erupted in a roar of excitement as the familiar opening notes of “Way Away” started. As each song from the album unfolded, it was evident that time had not dulled the impact of their music. From “Believe” to “Only One,” each note and lyric resonated with the audience, transporting them back to a time when these songs were the anthems of their lives.
As if the Yellowcard reunion wasn’t enough to make the night legendary, an unexpected collaboration elevated the concert experience to new heights. Mayday Parade’s lead singer, Derek Sanders, took the stage alongside Yellowcard during “Hang You Up.”
Before the emotional Yellowcard reunion took center stage, the night had already been set ablaze by the energetic performances of Anberlin and Mayday Parade.
Anberlin’s performance was a journey through their discography, a captivating mix of rock anthems and heartfelt ballads that showcased their versatility as musicians. Mayday Parade, on the other hand, brought their signature blend of emotion and energy, encouraging the crowd to sing along to their biggest hits.
As the night drew to a close, the familiar notes of “Ocean Avenue” radiated through the stadium and every concert-goer found themselves singing along to their most popular tune.
The Usana Amphitheatre had witnessed a night of pure magic – a convergence of past and present, nostalgia and renewal. Yellowcard’s return, coupled with the collaborations and the dynamic performances of Anberlin and Mayday Parade, created a musical reunion we could have only dreamed of a few years ago.
It won’t be the last time we see this band on stage. Yellowcard has recently released new music for the first time in years and plans on many future tours to come.
