The Used celebrate their 25th anniversary at the House of Blues with Speed of Light

This last Friday, the 16th of May, emo legends The Used took over Downtown’s House of Blues to celebrate their 25th anniversary. Just one of three separate nights, they had previously played Albums The Used, and In Love and Death on the 13th and 15th respectively. On the 16th, the band was celebrating Lies for Liars, an album released in 2007. The night was extra special, as the House of Blues was celebrating its 20th anniversary as well. A concert staple in San Diego since 2005, the House of Blues is honoring its 2 decades with a series of concerts, including The Used, and numerous other artists with dates ranging all summer from May to August.

Opening the night were Santa Monica icons Speed of Light. This was their first time back in San Diego since opening for Bad Religion in 2023. With a fast-paced, powerful, and passionate sound, it’s hard not to be impressed by this young trope. A family affair, the band consists of siblings Riley (bass, vocals), Cameron (guitar), and Tyler (drums). An astonishing set, the band played songs like “Kill the Vibe,” “Teeth,” and newer single “Seance,” among many. Speed of Light currently has an album on the way, as deeply anticipated by fans. With an awe-inspiring live performance and incredible songs, these guys are amazing to catch live.

A sold-out show with a capacity of 1200, the House of Blues was packed tight as sardines, and The Used didn’t disappoint. Playing Lies for the Liars in its entirety, their energetic set was filled with raw emotion, joy, anger, and even a twinge of nostalgia. Lead vocalist Bert McCracken, alongside Jeph Howard (Bass), Joey Bradford (Guitar), and Dan Whitesides (Drums), jumped, screamed, and played like no other as the crowd sang along all night long. Between letting fans on stage to dance, to a fan proposal (She said yes!) midway through the show, it’s clear the connection between The Used and their fans is one only strengthened throughout their 25 years together.

While the primary portion of their tour ended on the 16th, The Used will continue their three-album tour in the fall to Anaheim, Dallas, Austin, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, and Philadelphia.