Concert Review and Photo Gallery: PUP, Jeff Rosenstock, Ekko Astral – St. Paul

The Fall tour featuring PUP, Jeff Rosenstock, and Ekko Astral kicked off in St. Paul with an explosion of friendship and punk rock. PUP, known for their recent album “Who Will Look After the Dogs,” and Jeff Rosenstock, still riding the wave of “Hellmode,” offered an electrifying performance for fans who love high-energy pop punk and garage rock with a focus on meaningful songwriting.

Before the headliners took the stage, Ekko Astral captivated the audience with their politically charged post-hardcore, noise punk, and art rock. Their debut album, “Pink Balloons,” received critical acclaim and topped Pitchfork’s list of the Best Rock Albums of 2024. Ekko Astral’s set was a dynamic mix of industrial sounds, pop punk tunes, and powerful social messages, showcasing their musical versatility and impact.

As a response to the pressing political climate, Ekko Astral stands out as a voice for those in need of support and protection, delivering a passionate live performance that resonates with audiences. Their dedication to meaningful themes and engaging music makes them an act worth catching early in the show.

Transitioning into Jeff Rosenstock’s set, the crowd was treated to a memorable performance filled with hits and fan-favorites spanning his illustrious career. Known for his engaging stage presence and deep connection with audiences, Rosenstock effortlessly blended garage rock anthems like “Scram!” with reflective ballads such as “Staring Out the Window at Your Old Apartment,” showcasing his artistic range and live prowess.

Rosenstock’s genre-defying music and socially relevant lyrics create a captivating live experience that cements his status as a seasoned punk rock performer. With a discography that spans various projects and collaborations, he continues to push boundaries and excite audiences with his dynamic performances that blend humor, emotion, and energy seamlessly.

Amidst Rosenstock’s set, highlights like the spirited rendition of “Nausea,” the vulnerable “9/10,” and the anthemic “Festival Song” resonated with the crowd, underscoring the power of his music to unite and inspire listeners. Transitioning from chaotic rippers to introspective moments, Rosenstock’s set offered a well-rounded showcase of his artistic vision and musical talents.

PUP’s performance took the energy to a primal and visceral level, infusing the show with raw emotion and anthems that hit home for many attendees. Lead singer Stefan Babcock set the tone by acknowledging the challenges of the world outside but emphasized the importance of creating a safe and exhilarating space within the venue.

The band’s setlist combined new tracks with fan favorites like “My Life is Over and I Couldn’t Be Any Happier,” “Free at Last,” and “Robot Writes a Love Song,” delivering a high-octane performance that fueled mosh pits, crowd-surfing, and a sense of shared catharsis. PUP’s refusal to do encores was upheld, instead opting for a grand finale featuring a joint performance with Jeff Rosenstock, culminating in a memorable cover of Alanis Morissette’s “You Oughta Know.”

The night was a celebration of punk rock’s enduring spirit and the power of live music to unite and uplift audiences. With all three bands delivering exceptional performances, the show left a lasting impression on attendees, reigniting the excitement and energy of live music experiences. As a music veteran, the show was a reminder of the transformative power of live performances and the enduring impact of artists who pour their hearts and souls into their craft.