Punk rock fans of all ages flocked Emo’s Austin to see punk rock bands Ballyhoo, Anti-Flag and Reel Big Fish perform. The night was filled with moshing, dancing, laughs and singing along with the bands. Baltimore band Ballyhoo! Began the show and gave the crowd the energy they needed for the headliner Anti-Flag and Reel Big Fish. For an opening band you’d think most people would not know who they really are, but for Ballyhoo! Almost everyone in the crowd knew exactly who they were and sang along to most of the songs they performed.
An oversized reversed American flag hung from the stage as Anti-Flag took the stage. A very high energetic set was expected by Anti-Flag and they gave the fans what they came for. Anti-Flag is really known for speaking out on political issue through their songs and what in life matters to them and the people. As being known for speaking out, you would expect them to speak about President Donald Trump at the show and that is what they did. They performed some of their political topic songs such as “Fuck Police Brutality,” “Die For The Government,” and “I’m Being Watched by the CIA.” The band really has a voice for its fans and that is what fans like about them because they speak out on current issues. They got a huge roar from the crowd when they spoke out on Trump and other current issues in between songs.
Drifting away from the political outspoken performance by Anti-Flag, Reel Big Fish took the stage to bring a different presence on stage with dancing and so much fun. Reel Big Fish is known for having weird, bizarre songs, but they are really clever and hilarious. They performed songs such as “I Want Your Girlfriend to Be My Girlfriend,” “Another F.U. Song,” “Snoop Dogg, Baby,” “I’m Cool,” and Everyone Else Is an Asshole.” On top of that they performed a cover of “The Impression That I get,” by The Mighty Mighty Bosstones and ultimately ending their set with a cover of “Take on Me,” by A-ha. Reel Big Fish is still on tour until mid-February where they will then set sail on March 3rd with 311 and many other bands on the Caribbean Cruise.
Photos & Writing By: Joshua Guerra | @joshguerra13
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