In a vibrant celebration of the 25th anniversary of Something To Write Home About, The Get Up Kids delivered a nostalgic and electrifying performance at the Stone Pony, delighting fans with a mix of classic hits and heartfelt energy that highlighted their enduring legacy in the emo music scene.
There’s something about certain albums that resonates deeply, evoking memories from different phases of life. For me, Something to Write Home About by The Get Up Kids is one such album. I first discovered it back in 2002, during my sophomore year of college. With two friends heavily immersed in the NJ punk scene, I felt like I’d stumbled onto a hidden gem. Emo was the soundtrack to my late teens and early 20s, and the raw emotion of this album played on repeat in my dorm room, filling the small space with its cathartic melodies.
Fast-forward, to October 1st, 2024, and I found myself at The Stone Pony, buzzing with anticipation for The Get Up Kids’ performance as part of their 25th-anniversary tour. The atmosphere was electric, amplified by the band’s affection for New Jersey—a place they acknowledged fondly throughout the night.
Before diving into The Get Up Kids’ set, I have to mention the opening act, Smoking Popes. Known for their classic song “Need You Around” from the Clueless soundtrack, they delivered a tight 40-minute set that captivated the growing crowd. Though the audience was more engaged as the night progressed, there was a palpable respect for Smoking Popes, with some fans singing along to their songs.
Arriving at The Stone Pony with ample time before the show, I noticed the cozy venue filled with dedicated fans. The intimate setting created a sense of camaraderie, as people gathered close to the stage, eager for the night ahead. The excitement was tangible as the lights dimmed, and The Get Up Kids took the stage around 9 pm.
Lead guitarist and backing vocalist Jim Suptic kicked off the night with a playful comment about how packed the venue was, likening it to being “like sausages.” His energy set the tone, reminding everyone that even though it was a Tuesday, they were going to rock out as if it were a Friday night.
The band launched into “Holiday,” the first track off Something to Write Home About, and the crowd erupted in cheers.
Throughout the night, they played the entire album in sequence, showcasing a mix of upbeat anthems and poignant ballads. Highlights for me included energetic tracks like “Action & Action” and “Valentine,” alongside the emotive “Red Letter Day,” which struck a chord with many in attendance. The distinctive vocals of Matt Pryor brought an added depth, enveloping us in a wave of nostalgia and excitement.
Capturing the moments on my camera while trying to fully immerse myself in the music proved challenging. The temptation to simply revel in the experience often pulled at me, especially during those opening songs that had me singing along with the crowd. Despite the distractions, the palpable energy kept me rooted in the moment.
As the band progressed through the album, I nestled against the barrier on the side, finally able to take in the music without the lens in front of me. The combination of upbeat guitar riffs and heartfelt lyrics made Something to Write Home About a quintessential emo album, reflecting the emotional rollercoaster of young love and heartbreak.
It’s also an album you don’t skip around; every track contributes to the overall journey, from the joyous beginnings to the reflective heartache.
Additionally, during the show, Suptic also expressed gratitude for the fans’ loyalty over the past 25 years, and the crowd responded with enthusiastic cheers, affirming the bond between the band and their supporters.
As the band finished the album, the crowd roared with applause, and the lights remained dim, hinting that the night wasn’t over yet. The Get Up Kids returned for an eight-song encore, including a bonus track in honor of their love for New Jersey.
Kicking off the encore with the slower, folksy “Campfire Kansas,” the band gradually built the energy, transitioning into fan favorites that spanned their discography from albums Four Minute Mile, On a Wire, Red Letter Day, Eudora, and Woodson.
One of the standout moments of the encore was “Woodson,” a song filled with nostalgia and reflections on relationships.
While there were minor distractions throughout the evening, including a brief security concern and an unexpected bout of attempted crowd surfing during “Don’t Hate Me,” these moments only added to the night’s authenticity. The security staff handled it well, ensuring everyone remained safe and engaged in the music.
The Get Up Kids’ performance was a heartfelt tribute to their legacy and a celebration of the connections formed through music. As the night came to a close, I left The Stone Pony feeling invigorated, reminded of the power of live music to transport us back to those pivotal moments in our lives.
It was more than just a concert; it was a reunion of souls, each person singing along to the soundtrack of their youth.
In celebrating the 25th anniversary of Something to Write Home About, The Get Up Kids demonstrated why they remain a beloved staple of the emo scene. Like Suptic said here’s to hoping we can celebrate the album again in another 25 years.
Catch The Get Up Kids now on tour in support of Something To Write Home About. For tickets and more check out their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) pages.
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The Get Up Kids Setlist
Encore:
Listen to the Setlist
About Something To Write Home About
The scene-defining seminal sophomore album has been completely remastered by Joe LaPorta at Sterling Sound and now includes a second disc of demos and rarities. Expanded packaging features revamped jacket artwork plus a 28-page large format full-color booklet featuring handwritten lyrics, photos, and other ephemera from the era. Get more details here.
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