jimmy eat world live at glasgow’s o2 academy

★★★★★ (5/5)

**JIMMY EAT WORLD PERFORMING AT GLASGOW’S O2 ACADEMY**
**PHOTOCREDIT: CALUM BUCHAN**

The chilly November evening in Glasgow was a perfect backdrop for Jimmy Eat World's highly anticipated return to the O2 Academy. This show was part of their headline UK tour, and the air was thick with excitement as fans lined up outside the venue, eagerly awaiting the Arizona rock band’s arrival. After nearly three decades in the music industry, Jimmy Eat World has cultivated a dedicated fan base, and the energy in the room was palpable even before they hit the stage.

The night's festivities began with an electrifying set from the Canadian punk band PUP, who served as the opening act for the tour. Their raw energy and engaging stage presence set the tone for what would be an unforgettable evening. PUP’s blend of anthemic punk and relentless enthusiasm had the crowd fired up, making it clear that they were more than just a warm-up act. Tracks like “Kids” and “DVP” had the audience jumping, priming them for the main event.

As the lights dimmed and the stage went dark, the O2 Academy erupted into cheers. Jimmy Eat World took the stage with a burst of energy, launching straight into “Pain,” a track from their acclaimed 2004 album. It was a bold choice that immediately set the tone for the night, proving that the band still has the same fire and passion that propelled them to fame in the early 2000s. Frontman Jim Adkins, dressed in his signature black shirt, looked genuinely thrilled to be back in Glasgow. His unmistakable voice filled the room, resonating with fans who sang along word-for-word.

The set list was a well-curated mix of classic hits and newer material, ensuring that both long-time fans and newer listeners were catered to. They wasted no time diving into their biggest hits, with the crowd erupting at the opening notes of “Sweetness.” The song’s infectious energy and driving guitars transformed the venue into a sea of bouncing heads and raised hands. With its instantly recognizable “whoa-oh” chorus, it lead to one of the loudest sing-alongs of the night. It’s clear that this song, now over two decades old, has lost none of its emotional resonance or impact.

However, it wasn’t just a night of nostalgia. Jimmy Eat World also showcased tracks from their recent releases like “Something Loud.” This new songs was met with just as much enthusiasm, proving that the band’s newer material still connects deeply with their audience. The live rendition of “Something Loud” was a standout moment, its introspective lyrics and powerful build-up hitting home in a way that only a live performance can achieve. Jim Adkins took a moment to thank the crowd for their unwavering support over the years, reflecting on how much it means to still be able to tour and perform for such enthusiastic fans.

The band’s chemistry was undeniable. Jim Adkins, guitarist Tom Linton, bassist Rick Burch, and drummer Zach Lind played with a tightness that only comes from decades of performing together. The rhythm section was particularly impressive during “Pain,” where the pounding drums and driving bass lines were the heartbeat of the song, urging the crowd to jump along in unison. The band's ability to seamlessly transition between their heavier rock anthems and softer, more melodic tracks was a testament to their versatility. “23,” a fan-favourite from the Futures album, was a perfect example of this, slowing the pace down with its introspective lyrics and haunting guitar riffs. It was a poignant moment, with fans swaying along, illuminated by the soft glow of phone lights.

As the night drew to a close, Jimmy Eat World saved the best for last of the main set. The opening riff of “The Middle” sent the crowd into a frenzy. The timeless anthem of resilience and hope turned the O2 Academy into a massive sing-along, with every person in the room belting out the chorus. It's a song that has transcended generations, and hearing it live was a reminder of why Jimmy Eat World has remained relevant for so long. The band ended their set an encore of “Night Drive” and “The World You Love” leaving the crowd on a high note with a rare treasured track that has rarely been played live and the latter being one of the most epic songs about surviving the trials of life.

Overall, Jimmy Eat World's performance in Glasgow was nothing short of spectacular. The band managed to strike a perfect balance between honouring their past hits and embracing their future, delivering a show that was both nostalgic and forward-looking. It’s clear that even after all these years, Jimmy Eat World remains a force to be reckoned with in the live music scene. The band’s ability to connect with their audience, both musically and emotionally, is a testament to their enduring legacy. As the fans spilled out into the cold Glasgow night, there was a shared feeling that they had just witnessed something special—a band that, even after all these years, still knows how to put on a truly unforgettable show.