My Chemical Romance

Regardless of whether you actually like My Chemical Romance’s music or not, I promise, everyone you know is going to be at this show. Like, everyone everyone. Because as much as people want to talk trash about My Chem not being legit or not being talented based solely off of their fan demographic, deep down everyone has a favorite song from them – one album that they actually got stoked for when they received a hard copy of it; one single that they secretly blast in the car when they’re out driving solo – everybody has one, at least. In spite of the trash talkers, the Jersey-bred foursome who managed to lead an entire movement in the rock scene still put on one of the best live shows around. To their credit, gone is the Hot Topic styling of yesteryear, in favor of more adult rock ’n’ roll grooming, but the music remains as edgy and innovative as ever. When the band first came out, they challenged the limits of how dark and moody mainstream rock could be, and now that they’ve evolved into a more grown-up aural style, they still challenge that notion. Just, with fewer sing-along choruses. The flair for dramatics is as strong as ever though, so rest assured these dudes will give you an actual performance with their show. - Brien Overly