Live Review: Bowling For Soup - Civic Hall, Wolverhampton
Support: Wheatus, Magnolia Park
9th February 2025
Words: Cat Finch
Photos: Tim Finch
It’s a chilly Sunday evening in February and The Razor’s Edge team head to the Civic Hall in Wolverhampton for the epic return of Bowling for Soup in their ‘A Hangover You Don’t Deserve’ 20th Anniversary Tour.
Magnolia Park opened the evening with a performance that was a dynamic blend of energetic pop-punk melodies and engaging stage presence. The crowd responded enthusiastically, with many attendees singing along to tracks like ‘Addison Rae’ and ‘10 for 10’. Their rendition of ‘Shallow’ showcased the band’s versatility, adding a unique pop-punk twist to the well-known ballad.
The band set the tone for an unforgettable evening, leaving a lasting impression on both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Wheatus took to the stage as the second act of the evening; a perfect bridge between the high-energy opener and the main event with Bowling for Soup. Their set was a delightful cocktail of nostalgia, irreverence, and pure, unbridled fun.
Kicking things off with two covers was an interesting move, the Darkness ‘Growing on Me’, and Erasures ‘A Little Respect’. Wheatus reimagining the classics with a cheeky, contemporary twist that got the audience dancing along and smiling in recognition
The momentum continued with ‘Fourteen’ and ‘Lemonade, tracks that showcased the band’s knack for catchy hooks and playful lyrics. Each song was delivered with an infectious energy that kept the crowd on its toes, eagerly anticipating what would come next. In ‘Leroy’ and ‘Hey, Mr. Brown’ the band injected a dose of humour and attitude, making it clear that they weren’t just there to perform—they were there to entertain and connect on a personal level.
The set took a slightly introspective turn with ‘Mope’, offering a brief, reflective moment amid the high-octane performance. But just as quickly, Wheatus ramped the energy back up for the grand finale: ‘Teenage Dirtbag’. The crowd erupted in a massive sing-along, with fans belting out every word to one of the band’s signature anthems, a fitting end to an unforgettable set.
The stage was set for Bowling For Soup to light up the Civic Hall in Wolverhampton, a mere year since they last did the very same thing. Tonight we celebrate the 20th anniversary of their seminal album, 'A Hangover You Don't Deserve'. The evening was a nostalgic journey, blending classic hits with fan favourites in an overall epic show.
The band kicked off the night with ‘Almost’, immediately setting an energetic tone that resonated throughout the venue. As they progressed through the setlist, tracks like ‘Trucker Hat’ and "1985’ had the crowd singing along, showcasing the timeless appeal of their music, the huge confetti cannons adding a swathe of yellow colour across the venue.
Midway through ‘Ohio (Come Back to Texas)’ brought a wave of enthusiasm, with fans echoing every lyric. The band's dynamic stage presence and genuine interaction with the audience created an intimate atmosphere, making the large venue feel personal.
The latter part of the show featured high-energy performances of ‘The Bitch Song’ and ‘Girl All the Bad Guys Want’, both of which were met with overwhelming an crowd response and participation.
Throughout the night, Bowling For Soup demonstrated why they remain a staple in the pop-punk scene. Their blend of humour, musicality, and rapport with fans made for a concert experience that was both entertaining and heartfelt. As the final notes played, it was evident that the band's legacy continues to thrive, leaving attendees with memories of a night filled with music, laughter, and nostalgia.
Photo Credits: Tim Finch Photography
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