By: Jeff Poole
Edited by: Erica McNatt
Last night, the stage of WesBanco Arena was set ablaze with a lineup that promised an unforgettable evening of punk rock mayhem. The night kicked off with a bang as The Scratch took to the stage, igniting the crowd with their raw energy and infectious enthusiasm.
Hailing from Dublin, Ireland, this up-and-coming band wasted no time establishing their presence. With blistering guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and gritty vocals, they delivered a set that was equal parts rebellious and captivating. Tracks like “Excuse” and “Sally MacLennane” had the audience moshing and chanting along, setting the perfect tone for the rest of the evening.
Following The Scratch’s electrifying performance, the crowd’s anticipation reached a fever pitch as Pennywise, the legendary punk rock band, took center stage. Bursting with adrenaline and attitude, Pennywise launched into a relentless barrage of hits, showcasing their signature blend of melodic hooks and hardcore intensity.
Frontman Jim Lindberg commanded the stage with his commanding presence, rallying the audience with anthems of rebellion and resilience. Songs like “Bro Hymn” and “Society” resonated with fans old and new, eliciting a sea of raised fists and jubilant shouts. The energy in the venue was palpable, with the mosh pit churning and crowd surfers riding the wave of excitement.
As the night wore on, the anticipation continued to build for the headlining act, Dropkick Murphys. Known for their unique fusion of punk rock and Celtic folk influences, Dropkick Murphys took the stage by storm, launching into a high-octane performance that left no doubt as to why they were the main event.
From the moment they burst into their opening song, “Cadence to Arms,” Dropkick Murphys had the crowd in the palm of their hand. The combination of bagpipes, mandolins, and blistering guitar riffs created a sound that was as raucous as it was infectious, fueling the audience’s frenzy.
Throughout their set, Dropkick Murphys delivered hit after hit with unrivaled energy and passion. Tracks like “The State of Massachusetts” and “Rose Tattoo” had the entire venue singing along at the top of their lungs, united in their love for this iconic band.
As the final chords of their encore reverberated through the venue, it was clear that this had been a night to remember. The Scratch, Pennywise, and Dropkick Murphys had delivered a triple dose of punk rock excellence, leaving the crowd exhilarated and hungry for more.
