TX2 Brings The End Of Us To San Diego
- Heather Vandemark
- Feb 14
- 3 min read
TX2 came to SOMA Sidestage in San Diego On February 7! TX2 caught my attention last year when I saw a video clip of them and a comment saying it’s Billie Joe’s kids. Wait, really? They are not really Billie Joe's kids, but they are the next generation of emo/punk rock using their platform to speak up against inequality and injustice. Even in the beginning of their career, them speaking up to their younger followers is powerful .
I pulled into the SOMA parking lot almost an hour after the doors opened. It seemed so quiet, there’s no one in line, now I’m questioning if I have the right day? I go through security, get my pass, walk into the old movie theater lobby, where merch is set up in the old concession booth. There’s a couple of people standing there contemplating a hoodie or a shirt. I know people usually filter in after the first band or two, but still seemed so odd to me, where is everybody? I turn left into the sidestage and it’s packed! Everyone was there at doors to get their spot and support the opening bands, which is pretty impressive! Looking around I realized there were a lot of Gen Xers with their kids, I can’t even explain how much I love seeing this! We Gen Xers had to sneak off to go to concerts, so we just take our kids now.
Truth be told, I didn’t see who was opening. I saw TX2 headlining and was all in. When the first band came out, I recognized Joe Occhiuti (bassist) and Michael Meany (actor) from Ice Nine Kills! It was Flat Out! I love side projects and they’ve been on my list to see, so that was a nice surprise. Michael, Joe, and Tony all have different vocal styles. They are a lot of fun, it felt like we were at a house party all throwing their own vibe into each song and it works.
buffalo_farm, a trap metal band, was up next. They came out and set the room on fire with their energy. They dress the same with masks covering their faces. I’m not a big fan of trap but this was awesome. I stood at the back of the room and couldn’t get over how the crowd responded to them in sync with their energy.
While watching the TX2 crew set up, a stick horse was handed to a fan that was so excited he was the chosen one to hold the horse. This was my first time seeing TX2 and made me curious what this was about. I finally figured it out later when they came out in cowboy hats and the fan handed the horse to lead singer Evan Thomas to ride. The first song Evan and Cam jump into the middle of the pit. They played a 14 song set, 9 of those songs being off their latest album End of Us that dropped this Friday, February 13th. I love that this band speaks up loudly and unapologetically for their stance on politics and society. They are inspiring so many people of all ages to be themselves, use their voices and everyone matters. Before “Vampire by Rumor”, Evan made everyone promise to stay alive for the next 10 years, that he needs every single one of us. This is part of the X Movement. TX2 fans are called “The X’s” and the focuses on mental health, LGBTQ+, and creating a safe space. TX2 has one million followers on Spotify. I believe with their charisma, energy, and strong message of inclusion and justice, they are going to be playing stadiums one day. They are headed to Australia in March for 5 shows supporting Rain City Drive and in April start a tour supporting Black Veil Brides. I didn’t know a single song, but I had a blast at their show and took the X Movement promise so I’m a fan!
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