Concert Review: Taking Back Sunday Celebrates Louder Now 20th Anniversary at DCU Center
Despite a powerful weekend thunderstorm that brought heavy rain, strong winds, and chilly temperatures, thousands of dedicated fans made their way to the DCU Center in Worcester, Massachusetts, on Saturday, September 26, 2026, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Louder Now with Taking Back Sunday.
Opening the evening was New Jersey-based emo and alternative rock band Saves the Day. Formed in 1997 in Princeton, the band features vocalist and guitarist Chris Conley, guitarist Arun Bali, bassist Rodrigo Palma, and drummer Claudio Rivera
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The group wasted no time energizing the crowd. Their set blended multiple styles within the alternative and emo genres, combining fast tempos, driving rhythms, and passionate performances. Their high-energy presence immediately ignited the audience and set the tone for the rest of the evening.
Next up was Thrice, whose powerful performance kept the momentum going throughout their set. Fronted by vocalist and guitarist Dustin Kensrue alongside lead guitarist and keyboardist Teppei Teranishi, the band delivered a dynamic and engaging performance from start to finish.
Joined by bassist Eddie Breckenridge and drummer Riley Breckenridge, Thrice showcased the musicianship and intensity that have made them a mainstay in alternative rock. Their set was both technically impressive and emotionally charged, setting a high bar for the evening's headlining act.
At 9:30 p.m., Taking Back Sunday took the stage to a roaring crowd eager to celebrate one of the most influential albums of the 2000s emo era.
The band opened with a brief intro featuring "Circle of Life" before launching into "What's It Feel Like to Be a Ghost?" and treating fans to a set packed with favorites, including "Liar (It Takes One to Know One)," "Tidal Wave," "Light Bringer," "Miami," "You Can't Look Back," and the beloved classic "Cute Without the 'E' (Cut From the Team)."
The night concluded with the band's biggest commercial success, "MakeDamnSure," sending the crowd into one final frenzy before the show came to a close.
Featuring vocalist Adam Lazzara, guitarist and vocalist John Nolan, bassist Shaun Cooper, drummer Mitchell Register, guitarist Nathan Cogan, and returning guitarist Fred Mascherino, Taking Back Sunday delivered a performance worthy of the occasion. The band's chemistry, energy, and connection with the audience resulted in a memorable show that earned a thunderous standing ovation from fans.
As pioneers of the early 2000s emo and alternative rock movement, Taking Back Sunday continues to demonstrate why they remain one of the genre's most influential bands. Twenty years after the release of Louder Now, their music still resonates with longtime fans while attracting new listeners.
The anniversary tour serves as both a celebration of the band's legacy and a reminder of the enduring impact they have had on alternative rock. Even amid stormy weather, Taking Back Sunday proved that their ability to connect with audiences remains as strong as ever, making for an unforgettable night in Worcester.
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