With the semester slowly coming to an end, there is only one thing on my mind: concerts. One of the concerts I look forward to every year is Vans Warped Tour. In one day it fills up the parking lot of The BB&T Pavilion (previously The Susquehanna Bank Center) and transforms it into a music lover’s paradise. With over 80 bands rotating throughout the duration of the tour, it can be quite overwhelming trying to plan out who to see. Here is my list of some can’t miss bands to make sure you get the most out of Warped Tour.
1. 3OH!3
While most fans remember 3OH!3 for their hits “Don’t Trust Me” and “My First Kiss,” many will be surprised to know this duo is still making music. They’re set to release a new album titled “Night Sports” early next month. It can be assumed that these new songs will most likely guide their setlist this summer but I’m hoping they’ll throw in some of the classics. Either way, 3OH!3 will definitely be a fun set to watch.
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2. Tonight Alive
These Australia natives have been all over the world lately. From playing shows in the United Kingdom to just recently wrapping up a North American co-headlining tour with Set It Off, they show no signs of slowing down. With their loyal following of fans, there’s no denying their set will be one packed with energy.
3. Set It Off
Getting their start on Youtube through frontman Cody Carson, this Florida-based band has proved to be a Vans Warped Tour favorite. This will be the band’s third time embarking on the summer tour. Their latest album “Duality” features the band’s orchestra-esque pop punk sound. Set it Off's upbeat songs will be just the thing to keep your energy up during an exhausting day at Vans Warped Tour.
4. We The Kings
We The Kings is known to make songs just as sunny and bright as the state of Florida they call home. Since releasing their debut self-titled album in 2007, they’ve drawn quite a large fanbase. Their fan favorites “Check Yes Juliet” and “Say You Like Me” have the ability to put a smile on anyone’s face.
5. Knuckle Puck
This pop-punk band is sure to be a standout act at Vans Warped Tour. They’ve toured with The Maine, Neck Deep, and Modern Baseball to name just a few. With a touring history like that, it's no wonder they got picked up for this year’s Vans Warped Tour.
6. Good Charlotte
Benji and Joel Madden are back and better than ever. After taking a break in 2011 from Good Charlotte to release music under The Madden Brother”, the two decided to go back to their old band in 2015. Their latest album, “Youth Authority”, is due to be released in July of 2016.
7. The Summer Set
No stranger to the Vans Warped Tour, The Summer Set is ready to hit the road. They recently released their third studio album titled “Stories for Monday.” The album has been a hit with fans and I’m sure Warped Tour goers will love it too. This band is known to be high energy and fun and will be just what a tired crowd needs to make it through the rest of the day.
8. Mayday Parade
Mayday Parade is known for their heartfelt songs “Miserable at Best” and “Terrible Things” but they also have produced their fair share of high energy rock songs. They’ve just finished the American Lines Tour with their longtime touring friends,The Maine. This band has played the Vans Warped tour numerous times and seems to get better every year.
9. State Champs
This band has quickly risen to the top of the pop-punk scene. They’re toured with the likes of The Wonder Years and All Time Low. State Champs’ lead singer, Derek DiScanio, has a truly captivating voice which has the ability to turn anyone into a fan.
10. The Maine
Since 2007, this Arizona rock band has been unstoppable. The Maine has released five studio albums and gained countless fans over the years. Their most recent album “American Candy” just celebrated it's one year anniversary and fans are still loving it. Their set is guaranteed to be one of the best of the day.
11. Yellowcard
This band is probably mostly remembered for their hit song “Ocean Avenue.” They’ve been active since 1997 and are still making music. They’re Vans Warped Tour veterans and all of these other bands could learn a thing or two from them.
No matter what date of Vans Warped Tour you’re attending, it’s sure to be a great day. To get more information about the Vans Warped Tour, head on over to the Vans Warped Tour website.
