Bad Religion / Social Distortion
with
Lovecrimes
The Fillmore Philadelphia
5-5
The ambiance crackled with anticipation at The Fillmore in Philadelphia as the revered bands Bad Religion and Social Distortion took center stage alongside the rising stars, Lovecrimes. With a devotion spanning over two decades for both Bad Religion and Social Distortion, witnessing them unite was a cherished fantasy fulfilled.
Lovecrimes ignited the night with an explosion of raw passion. Emerging from the heart of Southern California, their sound, a reminiscent echo of Social Distortion's essence, resonated deeply with the audience. Led by the magnetic presence of Julian Ness on guitar and vocals, complemented by the dynamic synergy of Trevor Lucca on guitar and backup vocals, Collin Schlesinger on bass and backup, and Josh Roossin on drums, Lovecrimes delivered a performance that felt simultaneously nostalgic and boldly innovative. Tracks like "Sabotage" teased their potential, leaving the crowd hungry for more.
Following Lovecrimes, Bad Religion took command of the stage, unleashing a relentless barrage of 22 songs spanning their illustrious career. From the commanding authority of "The Defense" to the triumphant anthem of "American Jesus," each chord struck with precision, electrifying the packed venue. The setlist, meticulously curated to encompass their vast repertoire, included cherished classics like "Anesthesia," evoking a sense of pilgrimage for devoted fans. A surprise instrumental rendition of the Intro to "The Boys Are Back in Town" following "American Jesus" served as a euphoric encore, leaving the audience yearning for an encore that never came.
Social Distortion brought the evening to its zenith, seamlessly blending new tracks with timeless favorites. From the explosive fervor of "Bad Luck" to the poignant resonance of "Ring of Fire" as the night's crescendo, the band held the audience captive with their unparalleled charisma. A standout moment arose when Julian Ness graced the stage once more, joining Social Distortion for a stirring rendition of "Warn Me," forging an unbreakable bond of camaraderie with the crowd.
In essence, the concert transcended mere performance, becoming a transcendent celebration of musical mastery. For those contemplating future shows, my advice is unequivocal: seize the opportunity—it's an experience that will linger in your soul long after the final chord fades. If only time could rewind, allowing us to bask in the magic of this unforgettable night again and again.
