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California Is For Lovers 2024: A Nostalgic Celebration Under the Sun

California Is For Lovers brought to you by Hawthorne Heights paid a visit to the city on a very sunny August 31st, bolstering a dream lineup for elder emo’s and new-age emo kids alike. The event was hosted by The Torch, an open-air extension of the historic LA Coliseum, offering an iconic location like no other. Energy ran high as festival-goers lined up outside the gates, anticipating the blast from the past to come. Twelve bands were split between two stages, with nearly no overlap, making it possible for the fittest of die-hard fans to bounce back and forth without missing a beat. 

On the Casey Calvert Stage, we had The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, A Static Lullaby, Cartel, Finch, Saosin, and our very hospitable festival co-founders, Hawthorne Heights. Over on the John Beatz Stage, we had Boycomma, New Aesthetic, This Wild Life, Stick To Your Guns, Bilmuri, and Anberlin. Though I may not have seen it all myself, I definitely saw several repeat fans at every set. 

The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus

My first set of the day over on the main stage was none other than The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, who delivered a high-energy performance, reigniting their early 2000s emo-pop energy with infectious enthusiasm. Frontman Ronnie Winter’s passionate vocals and dynamic stage presence brought a powerful nostalgia to the crowd, as hits like “Damn Regret” and “Your Guardian Angel” resonated with both longtime fans and newer listeners.  

We were even treated to a cover of Blink-182’s “All The Small Things,” which did not disappoint. The band finished out their set with their iconic “Face Down,” an instant crowd-pleaser and full-blown sing-along. Their mix of energetic stage presence and unwavering talent created an unforgettable atmosphere, showcasing why they continue to be a cherished icon in the emo scene. 

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A Static Lullaby

This set wasn’t something I, nor most of us elder emos, thought we’d ever get. Their first performance since 2016, and to no one’s surprise, they crushed it. They hit the stage hard, kicking off the set with “Rattlesnake!,” immediately setting the tone for a fierce and electrifying atmosphere that was both nostalgic and fresh.  

Tracks like “Lipgloss and Letdown” and “The Art of Sharing Lovers” showcased their signature blend of intensity and raw emotion. The set reached a memorable peak with an all-around badass cover of Britney Spears’ “Toxic,” adding an unexpected twist. It was definitely one for the books. Their return was a powerful reminder of why they remain a standout in the genre. I’m sure I speak for everyone when I say we’re all hoping this sparks a tour. 

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Cartel

I hate to say that I was late to the game, because prior to this I’d never heard of Cartel. A HUGE loss on my part. Nevertheless, I became an instant fan of this pop-punk sensation. They kicked things off with the energetic “Let’s Go,” setting a lively tone that remained throughout their set.  

They kept the momentum going with songs like “Faster Ride” and “The Perfect Mistake,” highlighting their skill for crafting standout tracks, but it was “Say Anything (Else)” that truly stole the show for me. The chorus was absolutely infectious and left us all wanting more. Finding new (to you) music at a live show is an unbeatable experience, and I’m thrilled to have been in attendance. They’ve definitely come a long way since “Band in a Bubble.” 

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Finch

Finch never fails to impress with their live shows. Nate Barcalow’s distinctive voice resonated through the air, sparking a wave of nostalgic passion. That was when the crowd surfing really kicked into high gear! The set was packed with fan favorites, including “Post Script” and “Stay With Me,” each track showcasing their skillful blend of powerful sound and emotional depth.

A highlight for many, including myself, was “Letters to You,” which struck a deep chord with the crowd. But of course, nothing beats a close like “What It Is To Burn.” Finch’s performance was a compelling reminder of their enduring impact on the post-hardcore scene. 

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Saosin

Throwing it back to the old-school classics over on the main stage, Saosin, with Cove Reber back on vox for the first time in 14 years, put on an unforgettable show, capturing the crowd with their unique sound. They launched their set with the atmospheric “It’s Far Better to Learn,” setting a mood of deep introspection. As they played through tracks like “Sleepers” and “It’s So Simple,” the energy never waned, with each song bringing its own intensity.  

“Voices” and “Follow and Feel” had the crowd fully engaged, especially with the sing-along during “Come Close.” By the time they closed with “Collapse” and “You’re Not Alone,” it was clear why Saosin remains a fan favorite. Their performance left everyone pumped and eagerly looking forward to their next gig. “THE BEETLE BOYS ARE BACK!” 

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Hawthorne Heights

The band played the entirety of “The Silence In Black And White” album, taking fans on a nostalgic journey back to 2005. A standout moment was their performance of a new song, “Gold Econoline,” where they not only delved into their personal connection to the album but also paid homage to us as fans, our dreams, and the scene itself. Woodruff’s moving tribute to those we’ve lost, combined with his acknowledgment of the fans’ role in the journey, created a powerful moment of unity. The sea of phone lights that illuminated the grounds was a stunning tribute to both the lost and the living, and I, along with many others, were moved to tears during this profoundly touching experience. 

As the night reached its climax, they closed with their iconic anthem “Ohio Is for Lovers.” Just before the song, JT remarked, “If you allow us, we will become the goddamn emo Grateful Dead,” setting the stage for an all-out frenzy. Every lyric was sung in unison, and the crowd surfing reached its peak, embodying the sheer energy and emotion of the moment. The set was a testament to the band’s enduring legacy and their deep connection with their fans, making it a night to remember for everyone in attendance. 

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Add Your Heading Text Here

We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Hawthorne Heights for having us out and allowing us to document this truly incredible event. The festival was an unforgettable celebration of music and community, and we are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of it. 

If you missed out this year, be sure not to miss next year’s “Is For Lovers Festival.” In the meantime, you can still catch Hawthorne Heights and several of the other amazing acts on their remaining tour dates: 

  • September 7, 2024 – Ohio Is For Lovers Festival, Cincinnati, OH
  • September 8, 2024 – Pickering Casino Resort, Pickering, ON
  • September 10, 2024 – Cross Insurance Center, Bangor, ME
  • September 11, 2024 – Starland Ballroom, Sayreville, NJ
  • September 12, 2024 – Palladium Times Square, New York, NY
  • September 13, 2024 – XL Live Southside Stage, Harrisburg, PA
  • September 14, 2024 – ForX Summer Stage, Wayland, NY
  • September 15, 2024 – The Palladium, Worcester, MA
  • October 4, 2024 – Venue 867, Monterrey, Mexico
  • October 5, 2024 – We Missed Ourselves Fest, Mexico City, Mexico City
  • October 10, 2024 – Aftershock Festival, Sacramento, CA
  • October 11, 2024 – WOW Hall, Eugene, OR
  • October 12, 2024 – Knitting Factory, Boise, ID
  • October 13, 2024 – El Corazón, Seattle, WA
  • October 14, 2024 – Star Theater, Portland, OR
  • October 16, 2024 – The Siren, Morro Bay, CA
  • October 17, 2024 – 1933 Prohibition Lounge, Bakersfield, CA
  • October 18, 2024 – The Strat Hotel, Las Vegas, NV
  • October 19, 2024 – When We Were Young Festival, Las Vegas, NV
  • October 20, 2024 – When We Were Young Festival, Las Vegas, NV
  • October 23, 2024 – Pappy + Harriet’s, Pioneertown, CA
  • October 26, 2024 – Garden Amphitheater, Garden Grove, CA
  • October 27, 2024 – Troubadour, West Hollywood, CA

For tickets and more information, visit their official website: https://www.hawthorneheights.com 

Be sure to grab your tickets and experience the magic for yourself! 

It was never a phase <3 

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