Twenty Years Later, Taking Back Sunday Still Hits Home
Taking Back Sunday has proved their lasting impact in the alternative rock scene throughout their 2026 summer tour across the US. The band made their third-to-last stop of their run at the Capital Theatre in Davenport, Iowa on June 19th and did not fail to draw in dedicated fans from all over the Midwest. Outside of the venue, the band drew a long line of fans that extended down the street and around the corner, all eagerly waiting to get in. Although they are more than two decades into their career, Taking Back Sunday performed a memorable show that felt equal parts nostalgic and excitingly vibrant.
The energy in the venue was already high as the band took stage following punk-rock veterans Bayside’s electric performance. The lights in the two-story theater venue dimmed as the 6 members walked on stage. Shaun Cooper (bass), John Nolan (guitar), Mitchell Register (drums), Nathan Cogan (guitar) and Fred Mascherino (guitar) took stage as frontman Adam Lazzara trailed behind them. The entrance earned a significant standing ovation as anticipation exerted from the crowd’s energy. The members took their instruments and immediately started the intro of “What’s it Like to Be a Ghost?”, the first track of 2006’s hit album Louder Now. Nostalgic vibes flooded the room as fans of all ages sang along to the emotionally charged lyrics.
The band continued to play hits off of most of their albums creating a sentimental and familiar feel throughout their performance. Larazza danced around the stage and made sure to interact with each member throughout the set. Lazarra pointed and sang to the audience while twirling the microphone by its chord, tossing it in the air and seamlessly catching it – a habit developed early in the band's career which has become a staple to their performances.
As pioneers of early 2000’s emo and alternative rock scene, Taking Back Sunday is built upon raw and emotional lyrics blended with intense rhythm. Their 2002 debut album Tell All Your Friends gained massive traction that helped seal the band’s popularity throughout the past 20 years. Taking Back Sunday continues to have a massive and highly dedicated fanbase that still sings every word to all of their songs. Halfway through the show Lazzara took a moment to take the crowd in. He looked up and down the venue and said into his mic, “You know what? I’ve played everywhere. But this is my first time playing in Davenport, Iowa.” The lead singer earned a laugh followed by loud applause and cheering from the crowd. No matter where the band goes, they seem to attract a crowd eager to sing along to every word.
The band finished their set with their iconic hit “Cute without the ‘E’” followed by their most successful single to date, “MakeDamnSure.” The crowd was sent into a frenzy as soon as the first couple notes of each song played. The energy levels were at their peak as sharp red lights shone across the stage and onto each member playing with an incredible amount of energy. Fans chanted back the lyrics with ease as almost everyone had their hands in the air.
Taking Back Sunday proves to still be one of the most influential bands in the emo and alternative rock scene. Filled with audience members from multiple generations, it was a fitting end to the night that celebrated both the band’s legacy as well as excitement of what’s to come. Taking Back Sunday will be taking the stage across the United States again this fall with special guests Thrice and Saves the Day. The band shows no sign of slowing down, continuing to connect with long time fans while attracting a new generation of listeners on the way.
Photos and review by Elena James
