Brum Shots

Broadside are the lucky ones to kick things off for us tonight. With an already established fan base here with them tonight, they receive a far more enthusiastic reception than the unobjectionable and polite applause many support bands do. 2015 hit ‘Coffee Talks’ brings back memories of Slam Dunk performances gone by – it’s good to hear again. Vocalist Ollie Baxxter keeps us entertained in between songs with the angsty teen-style ramblings that resonate with many of us here.

Next comes The Home Team, who take a slightly heavier approach to pop-punk. With some silly dance moves, lots of spinning and one set of luxurious locks, it doesn’t take long for the crowd’s energy to pick up once more. It’s their first time in the UK, but unlikely to be their last!

And finally it’s time for a masterclass in modern pop punk perfection: State Champs have arrived. In a set that spans their entire career, they effortlessly demonstrate how they can convince an audience of this size to traipse out on a Wednesday night for a jump around and some moshing.

The set features everything you’d expect from the New York foursome. Loud vocals shouted by vocalist Derek DiScanio and crowd alike, crowd-surfing aplenty (those poor security guards look exhausted) and nostalgic tunes that make us long for the simplicity of 10 years ago.

We’re treated to hits from as far back as their debut album, and even a surprise appearance from Slope for his featured performance in ‘Save Face Story.’ By the time the encore occurs, the whole room has adopted a sauna-like temperature, but that doesn’t wane the spirits of the crowd who are merely encouraged to sing louder.

The whole night is a joyful experience. It may sound cliché, but it’s one of them where you can let go of your inhibitions and forget your worries for a few hours. It’s hard not to leave with a grin on your face, despite the aching bones from the excessive jumping around!