When We Were Young 2024: A Nostalgic Dream Come to Life

Attending When We Were Young 2024 felt like stepping into a time machine built for emo, pop-punk, and post-hardcore fans. The festival was held in the heart of Las Vegas, and staying at Circus Circus made for a relatively easy commute, though the sheer volume of attendees meant long lines and packed shuttles. Security was well-organized, and once inside, the atmosphere was electric with nostalgia and excitement. Amenities included plenty of water stations, diverse food options, and even a few carnival rides, adding to the festival’s already vibrant energy. Merchandise lines were overwhelming at times, but the selection was impressive, with exclusive festival-themed apparel for each performing band.

A Day to Remember (Performing Homesick)

A Day to Remember’s performance of Homesick was nothing short of explosive. Kicking off with “The Downfall of Us All,” the entire crowd erupted into synchronized chants, setting the tone for an adrenaline-fueled set. Jeremy McKinnon’s vocals were sharp, seamlessly shifting from melodic croons to aggressive screams. The pit was relentless during “I’m Made of Wax, Larry, What Are You Made Of?” as fans crashed into each other with sheer enthusiasm. The band’s energy never wavered, and the breakdown in “Mr. Highway’s Thinking About the End” ignited one of the most chaotic mosh pits of the festival. Their live rendition of “Have Faith in Me” allowed for a brief emotional reprieve before launching back into pure chaos with “Welcome to the Family.” Closing with “If It Means a Lot to You,” the entire crowd sang along, creating an unforgettable collective moment. Every song was delivered with precision, making it clear why Homesick remains such a beloved album.

Armor for Sleep (Performing What to Do When You Are Dead)

Armor for Sleep brought their cult classic What to Do When You Are Dead to life with an emotional and immersive set. From the haunting intro of “Car Underwater,” the band captivated fans, many of whom had waited years to hear these songs live. Ben Jorgensen’s vocals were as haunting as ever, carrying the weight of nostalgia and melancholy. The ambient stage lighting and visuals reinforced the album’s concept, making the performance feel cinematic. Tracks like “The Truth About Heaven” and “Remember to Feel Real” showcased the band’s ability to blend atmospheric elements with raw energy. The crowd engagement during “Awkward Last Words” was particularly moving, with fans screaming every lyric as if reliving their teenage heartbreaks. The live instrumentation was tight, proving the band still has an undeniable chemistry. Closing with “The End of a Fraud,” the set left the audience in awe, a reminder of the album’s timeless impact.

Bayside (Performing Bayside)

Bayside’s self-titled album is considered a defining work in their discography, and their performance proved why. Anthony Raneri’s voice carried the same urgency and sincerity that made the original recordings so impactful. “Devotion and Desire” opened the set, immediately igniting a frenzy among the crowd. Jack O’Shea’s guitar work was particularly sharp, elevating songs like “Tortures of the Damned” and “Blame It on Bad Luck” with intricate riffs and solos. The band’s chemistry was undeniable, making each song sound even more powerful live. Raneri’s storytelling between tracks gave insight into the personal nature of these songs, deepening the emotional connection for longtime fans. “Don’t Call Me Peanut” was a particularly moving moment, as the crowd harmonized in unison. Their set had an intensity that never wavered, proving why Bayside remains such an essential album. Closing with “They Looked Like Strong Hands,” the band left the stage to roaring applause.

August Burns Red (Performing Constellations)

August Burns Red delivered an absolutely punishing performance of Constellations, proving why they remain one of metalcore’s most technically proficient bands. Opening with “Thirty and Seven,” the blistering guitar work of JB Brubaker and Brent Rambler immediately set the stage for chaos. Jake Luhrs’ guttural vocals commanded the crowd’s attention, with fans screaming along to every word. The pit intensified during “Existence” and “Ocean of Apathy,” with breakdowns that felt heavier live than on record. The intricate drumwork of Matt Greiner was a highlight, especially during the relentless rhythms of “Marianas Trench.” The band balanced brutality with melody in tracks like “White Washed,” where the crowd sang along between crushing riffs. A standout moment was “Indonesia,” which Luhrs dedicated to lost loved ones, bringing a wave of emotion over the audience. The set concluded with “Crusades,” leaving fans exhilarated and breathless.

Coheed and Cambria (Performing Good Apollo, I’m Burning Star IV, Volume One)

Coheed and Cambria’s performance of Good Apollo, I’m Burning Star IV, Volume One was a mesmerizing blend of progressive rock storytelling and musical prowess. Claudio Sanchez’s signature vocals soared as the band opened with “Welcome Home,” igniting an immediate singalong. The band’s chemistry was on full display during “Ten Speed (of God’s Blood & Burial),” with Josh Eppard’s drumming providing a dynamic backbone. The haunting melodies of “The Suffering” and “Wake Up” showcased the band’s ability to balance complexity with heartfelt emotion. Fans were entranced during “The Willing Well” suite, with each section unfolding like an epic journey. Sanchez’s masterful guitar work and the intricate instrumentation made the entire set feel larger than life. Closing with “The Final Cut,” the performance was nothing short of breathtaking.

Dance Gavin Dance (Performing Mothership)

Dance Gavin Dance brought their signature blend of post-hardcore, funk, and technical prowess to the stage with Mothership. Opening with “Chucky vs. The Giant Tortoise,” the band immediately showcased their dynamic energy. Tilian Pearson’s soaring cleans contrasted perfectly with Jon Mess’s chaotic screams, creating an electrifying vocal interplay. Will Swan’s guitar work was a highlight, especially on tracks like “Deception” and “Betrayed by the Game.” The groovy rhythms of “Young Robot” had the crowd dancing just as much as moshing. “Flossie Dickey Bounce” delivered pure fun, while “Inspire the Liars” created one of the set’s most emotional moments. The synergy between the band members was palpable, proving why Mothership remains a fan favorite.

Dashboard Confessional (Performing Dusk and Summer)

Dashboard Confessional delivered an emotional performance of Dusk and Summer, embracing nostalgia and vulnerability. Opening with “Don’t Wait,” Chris Carrabba’s voice resonated with raw sincerity. The crowd was spellbound during “Stolen,” singing along with every lyric. The stripped-down nature of “So Long, So Long” created an intimate atmosphere, enhanced by the festival’s twilight setting. “Vindicated” erupted into one of the biggest singalongs of the night. Closing with “Dusk and Summer,” the performance felt like a heartfelt reunion between artist and fans.'

Escape the Fate (Performing This War is Ours)

Escape the Fate’s performance of This War is Ours was a high-energy spectacle that took fans back to the band’s post-hardcore roots. Opening with “We Won’t Back Down,” the band immediately commanded the crowd’s attention. Craig Mabbitt’s vocals were sharp, blending aggression with melody in songs like “Ashley” and “Something.” Guitar solos in “10 Miles Wide” showcased the band’s technical prowess, while the breakdowns in “Harder Than You Know” provided emotionally charged moments. The highlight of the set was the title track, “This War is Ours (The Guillotine II),” which erupted into one of the wildest mosh pits of the night. Their chemistry and stage presence reinforced their reputation as live performers.

Hawthorne Heights (Performing The Silence in Black and White)

Hawthorne Heights delivered an emotionally intense performance of The Silence in Black and White, taking fans on a journey through one of emo’s most defining albums. Opening with “Life on Standby,” the band immediately set a melancholic yet energetic tone. JT Woodruff’s vocals were raw and heartfelt, particularly in fan-favorites like “Niki FM” and “Dissolve and Decay.” The crowd erupted in an emotional singalong during “Ohio is for Lovers,” a defining anthem of the genre. Their performance of “Blue Burns Orange” carried a sense of urgency, while the layered guitars in “Silver Bullet” added a haunting texture. Closing with “Speeding Up the Octaves,” the set was a perfect balance of nostalgia and passion.

Jimmy Eat World (Performing Bleed American)

Jimmy Eat World’s performance of Bleed American was an absolute festival highlight, showcasing the band’s ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with anthemic rock energy. Opening with the title track, the band wasted no time in energizing the audience. “A Praise Chorus” and “Sweetness” had the entire crowd singing along, their melodies as infectious as ever. Jim Adkins’ vocals were flawless, carrying both the raw emotion of “Hear You Me” and the soaring energy of “The Middle.” The performance of “Your House” was a standout moment, with its intimate delivery bringing a hush over the crowd. The closing track, “My Sundown,” was a perfect way to end the set, leaving fans feeling both exhilarated and nostalgic. Their live sound was crisp and true to the original recordings, further proving their timeless appeal. The band’s stage presence was effortless, commanding attention without needing elaborate theatrics. The audience was fully engaged, creating a communal atmosphere that resonated throughout the festival grounds. Jimmy Eat World once again demonstrated why Bleed American remains one of the most cherished albums of the early 2000s.

L.S. Dunes

L.S. Dunes delivered one of the most dynamic and passionate performances of the festival. The band, composed of members from My Chemical Romance, Coheed and Cambria, Thursday, and Circa Survive, brought an electrifying blend of post-hardcore energy and intricate musicianship. Anthony Green’s vocals were hauntingly beautiful, oscillating between delicate melodies and raw, visceral screams. Songs like “Permanent Rebellion” and “Bombsquad” showcased the band’s ability to fuse intensity with melody, creating an unforgettable live experience. The chemistry between the members was evident, their performance feeling both tight and organic. The crowd, composed of die-hard fans and newcomers alike, was captivated from start to finish. Their set was a rollercoaster of emotion, with slower, moody sections giving way to explosive climaxes. The instrumental work, particularly Travis Stever’s guitar riffs, added depth and complexity to each track. Green’s engaging stage presence and emotional delivery made every song feel deeply personal. By the end of the set, it was clear that L.S. Dunes had made a lasting impression on the festival crowd.

Mayday Parade (Performing A Lesson in Romantics)

Mayday Parade’s full performance of A Lesson in Romantics was a heartfelt and emotional journey that resonated deeply with fans. The band kicked off their set with “Jamie All Over,” igniting an immediate singalong that set the tone for the entire performance. Derek Sanders’ voice carried the same raw vulnerability that made the album so beloved. Songs like “Black Cat” and “Jersey” showcased the band’s signature blend of pop-punk energy and emotional lyricism. The standout moment of the set was “Miserable at Best,” which turned into a full-crowd chorus, as thousands of voices harmonized in an intimate, heartbreaking moment. The band’s chemistry was undeniable, with every instrument complementing Sanders’ powerful vocal delivery. Their performance of “I’d Hate to Be You When People Find Out What This Song is About” was another highlight, bringing a sense of catharsis to the audience. The stage production was simple but effective, allowing the music and lyrics to take center stage. Mayday Parade closed the set with “You Be the Anchor That Keeps My Feet on the Ground,” leaving a lasting impact on the crowd. The performance was a testament to how A Lesson in Romantics has stood the test of time and continues to hold deep meaning for fans.

Motion City Soundtrack (Performing Commit This to Memory)

Motion City Soundtrack’s set was a high-energy, nostalgic trip through their seminal album Commit This to Memory. From the first notes of “Attractive Today,” the crowd was fully engaged, bouncing along to Justin Pierre’s unmistakable vocals. The synth-driven hooks of “Everything Is Alright” sent waves of excitement through the audience, making it one of the most infectious moments of the festival. Pierre’s self-deprecating humor and engaging stage presence made the set feel intimate despite the massive crowd. Tracks like “L.G. FUAD” and “Make Out Kids” showcased the band’s unique ability to balance quirky lyricism with deep emotional resonance. The live instrumentation was flawless, with Jesse Johnson’s synth work adding a dynamic layer to their performance. One of the standout moments was “Hold Me Down,” which was performed with an added level of passion that sent chills through the crowd. The emotional climax came with “Together We’ll Ring in the New Year,” a song that hit even harder in a live setting. Motion City Soundtrack closed with “Hangman,” leaving fans in awe of their ability to capture both joy and melancholy in a single performance. Their set was a true celebration of an album that defined an era, reminding everyone why Commit This to Memory remains such a beloved classic.

Simple Plan (Performing No Pads, No Helmets…Just Balls)

Simple Plan brought an infectious energy to the stage as they performed No Pads, No Helmets…Just Balls in its entirety. Kicking off with “I’d Do Anything,” the band immediately had the crowd jumping and singing along. Pierre Bouvier’s vocals sounded just as youthful and vibrant as they did in the early 2000s. “The Worst Day Ever” and “You Don’t Mean Anything” were filled with nostalgia, making fans relive their teenage angst. The crowd erupted during “I’m Just a Kid,” with thousands screaming every lyric as if it were an anthem of their youth. “When I’m With You” and “Meet You There” provided heartfelt moments, showcasing the band’s ability to mix pop-punk fun with emotional depth. The energy remained high through “My Alien” and “God Must Hate Me,” as the band’s chemistry was undeniable. The set closed with the iconic “Perfect,” bringing an emotional yet satisfying end to a performance that proved Simple Plan’s music remains timeless.

Silverstein (Performing Discovering the Waterfront)

Silverstein delivered a powerful and passionate set, playing Discovering the Waterfront with intensity and precision. Shane Told’s vocals seamlessly transitioned between melodic croons and aggressive screams, bringing an electrifying energy to songs like “Your Sword Versus My Dagger” and “Smile in Your Sleep.” The band’s instrumentation was tight, with Paul Koehler’s drumming standing out in tracks like “Already Dead.” The emotional weight of “My Heroine” was amplified in a live setting, as the crowd sang along with raw intensity. “Call It Karma” closed the set on a perfect note, leaving the audience buzzing with adrenaline. Each song was performed with a sincerity that made it clear why Discovering the Waterfront remains a staple in post-hardcore.

The Distillers (Performing Coral Fang)

The Distillers took the stage with pure, unfiltered punk energy, blasting through Coral Fang with relentless attitude. Brody Dalle’s signature raspy vocals were as fierce as ever, immediately commanding the crowd’s attention with “Drain the Blood.” “Dismantle Me” and “Die on a Rope” had the pit moving aggressively, proving that punk rock is still alive and well. The set’s standout moment came with “The Hunger,” where Dalle’s haunting delivery created a captivating, almost eerie atmosphere. “Beat Your Heart Out” and “Love Is Paranoid” showcased the band’s ability to balance chaos with melody. The raw aggression in “Hall of Mirrors” was undeniable, and “Death Sex” closed the set with an explosive finale. The Distillers’ performance reminded everyone why they are punk legends, with Coral Fang still carrying the same rebellious spirit it did two decades ago.

The Devil Wears Prada (Performing Plagues)

The Devil Wears Prada delivered one of the most intense performances of the festival with their full playthrough of Plagues. Opening with “Goats on a Boat,” the band wasted no time unleashing a brutal sonic assault. Mike Hranica’s unrelenting screams drove tracks like “HTML Rulez D00d” and “Hey John, What’s Your Name Again?” to their maximum impact. The band’s synchronized breakdowns created a whirlwind of chaos in the pit, with “Reptar, King of the Ozone” being a standout moment of pure aggression. “Don’t Dink and Drance” provided a haunting atmosphere, contrasting beautifully with the relentless heaviness of the set. The energy peaked with “This Song Is Called,” as fans screamed every lyric back at the band. The closing track, “Nickels Is Money Too,” left the audience drained yet exhilarated. The Devil Wears Prada proved that Plagues remains one of the most influential metalcore albums of its time, with their performance standing out as one of the heaviest of the weekend.

The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus (Performing Don’t You Fake It)

The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus brought an emotional and powerful set to the stage with Don’t You Fake It. Opening with “In Fate’s Hands,” the band immediately transported fans back to the mid-2000s. “Waiting” and “False Pretense” showcased their signature mix of aggression and melody, while “Face Down” created one of the loudest singalongs of the festival. Ronnie Winter’s vocals were impressive, carrying every song with passion and precision. The softer side of the album shined through in “Your Guardian Angel,” where the entire crowd swayed with phone lights illuminating the night. The live rendition of “Damn Regret” brought back a surge of energy, keeping the crowd engaged. The band’s performance of “Misery Loves Its Company” highlighted their ability to blend emotional depth with powerful instrumentation. Closing with “Grim Goodbye,” The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus proved why Don’t You Fake It still resonates so strongly with fans today.

The Used (Performing In Love and Death)

The Used delivered one of the most emotionally charged performances of the festival, playing In Love and Death in its entirety. Kicking off with “Take It Away,” Bert McCracken immediately commanded the stage with his raw and theatrical presence. “I Caught Fire” and “Let It Bleed” had the crowd moving frantically, while “All That I’ve Got” provided a moment of pure catharsis. McCracken’s interactions with the crowd made the set feel deeply personal, especially during “Cut Up Angels.” The emotional climax of the night came with “Hard to Say,” as fans held onto each other, some with tears in their eyes. The intensity picked back up with “Listening” and “Sound Effects and Overdramatics,” proving The Used can still bring chaotic energy. The performance of “I’m a Fake” was a masterclass in theatrical delivery, with McCracken pouring every ounce of emotion into the song. Closing with “Yesterday’s Feelings,” the band left a lasting impact, cementing their place as one of the most influential bands of the scene.

We the Kings (Performing Their Self-Titled Debut)

We the Kings’ performance of their self-titled debut was a vibrant and high-energy trip back to the late 2000s. Opening with “Secret Valentine,” the band immediately set the tone for a feel-good set filled with catchy hooks and heartfelt lyrics. Travis Clark’s vocals were crisp and full of enthusiasm, keeping the crowd engaged from start to finish. “Skyway Avenue” and “Stay Young” had fans singing along at the top of their lungs, reliving the youthful energy that made the album a classic. “Check Yes Juliet” was the undeniable highlight, with the entire crowd jumping in unison as Clark led the ultimate singalong. Slower tracks like “All Again for You” provided an emotional breather before diving back into their infectious pop-punk anthems. The band’s chemistry on stage was undeniable, radiating pure joy as they played through each track. The festival setting made their nostalgic sound feel even more magical, reinforcing why their debut album remains so beloved.

Taking Back Sunday

Taking Back Sunday’s set was one of the most anticipated of the day, and while the energy was present, there were noticeable hiccups throughout the performance. From the start, it was evident that Adam Lazzara was struggling, missing lyrics and appearing visibly intoxicated. Classics like “Cute Without the ‘E’ (Cut from the Team)” and “You’re So Last Summer” had moments where the crowd had to fill in the blanks as Lazzara trailed off. While his charismatic stage presence still shined through at times, the inconsistencies in his performance became hard to ignore. That said, the band’s instrumentals were tight, with Mark O’Connell’s drumming and John Nolan’s guitar work keeping the energy high. “MakeDamnSure” managed to salvage the set, with the audience taking over and belting out every lyric. There was an undeniable sense of disappointment among longtime fans, but the nostalgia factor still carried the performance.

Fall Out Boy

Fall Out Boy’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, delivering a three-act show that felt both theatrical and explosive. Opening with “Sugar, We’re Goin Down,” the band immediately had the entire crowd in a frenzy, proving they still dominate the live music scene. Patrick Stump’s vocals were impeccable, flawlessly transitioning from soft, emotional moments to full-throttle anthemic choruses. Pete Wentz, ever the showman, kept the energy high with his signature stage antics and engaging banter between songs.

The middle of their set focused on deeper cuts from From Under the Cork Tree and Infinity on High, with standout moments including “A Little Less Sixteen Candles, A Little More ‘Touch Me’” and “The Take Over, The Breaks Over.” Their stage production was among the best of the festival, featuring pyrotechnics, vibrant lighting, and even a surprise confetti blast during “Thnks fr th Mmrs.” As the band dove into “This Ain’t a Scene, It’s an Arms Race,” the crowd’s energy reached new heights, turning the festival grounds into a massive singalong.

Closing with “My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark” and an emotional rendition of “Saturday,” Fall Out Boy proved why they continue to headline major festivals. Their performance was a mix of nostalgia, modern showmanship, and genuine passion for their music. It was easily one of the most polished and dynamic sets of the entire event, leaving the audience fully satisfied.

My Chemical Romance

The final performance of the festival was none other than My Chemical Romance, delivering a set that was both deeply personal and electrifying. From the first haunting notes of “The End.” leading into “Dead!,” it was clear that this was going to be a cathartic experience. Gerard Way’s voice carried every ounce of emotion that made The Black Parade and Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge so iconic.

For me, My Chemical Romance is more than just a band—it’s a source of strength. Their music has helped guide me through my transition, giving me courage and a sense of belonging. Hearing “Famous Last Words” live was particularly emotional, as its lyrics have served as a personal anthem in my journey. “Helena” and “I’m Not Okay (I Promise)” were performed with the same fire and passion that made them legendary, with the entire audience screaming every word in unison.

The night ended with “Welcome to the Black Parade,” a song that has been a lifeline for so many. As the opening piano notes echoed through the festival, tears and cheers filled the air, a testament to how deeply this band has impacted lives. My Chemical Romance’s performance was not just a concert—it was a shared emotional release, a celebration of survival, and a reminder that their music will always be there to uplift those who need it. Their music saved my life, and seeing them live reaffirmed the power and connection that only they can create.