The Story So Far has earned a reputation as one of the most exhilarating live bands in the pop-punk scene. Their shows are not just concerts; they’re cathartic experiences where the band and their fans feed off each other’s energy, creating a unique, almost ritualistic atmosphere at every performance. Whatever venue or festival they might be playing at, they maintain that same intense, heart-pounding energy that has made them a cornerstone of modern pop-punk.
We had the chance to catch the band playing their on-going UK/EU tour in London, at the legendary Roundhouse, one of the biggest and most famous venues in Camden Town, North London.
Parker Cannon, the band’s frontman, has a way of making each show feel personal, even in larger venues, as if he’s singing directly to the crowd – which goes wild for him, and the band itself.
The moment the band kicks into their first song, you can feel the intensity rise in the room. The crowd knows exactly what to expect: fast-paced, aggressive pop-punk with a hint of melancholy. The connection between the band and their fans is symbiotic—Cannon’s frantic, emotionally charged vocals match the fervour of the audience, who are constantly screaming lyrics back to him.
The Story So Far‘s setlists are a fine balance of fan favourites, new material, and deeper cuts. While their most popular tracks like “Proper Dose”, “Nerve”, and “Big Blind”, from their newest released album, are guaranteed crowd-pleasers, they also do a great job of mixing in songs from throughout their discography. Fans of all eras of the band’s work get something to enjoy. Fans sing along to every word, and the sense of community is ever-present. The pit is an essential part of the experience, with moshing, crowd surfing, and a general sense of chaos that’s both thrilling and inclusive.
However, it’s not just the musicianship that stands out. The overall production of their live shows is high-quality, with lighting and visuals complementing the mood of the music. During particularly intense moments, the stage is bathed in flashing lights, adding another layer to the sensory overload that defines a The Story So Far performance.
The energy, the crowd interaction in London, the personal connection between the band and their UK audience—it all contributes to a sense of belonging, a reminder of the power of music to bring people together. The intensity of their live performances is what makes The Story So Far a standout in today’s pop-punk and hardcore scene as a band.
