Millennials packed into Roadrunner on the 26th to welcome the Format on opening night of their first major cross-country tour in nearly 20 years. Collaborative partners Nate Ruess and Sam Means were visibly emotional at the turnout, thanking fans at multiple breaks in the set. Joining the bill were Adult Mom, and Andover punks Piebald, who got a shoutout for taking Ruess and Means on tour when they were just getting started in the early aughts. Sure was nice of them to return the favor this time around! The band played a selection of songs mostly from their 2002 album We Are The Only Friends We Have, including the always-addicting “American Hearts”. They also teased their upcoming album Tales for the Rages, by playing lead single “Still on the Couch”.

The Format played a healthy mix of hits from their earlier albums including “The First Single” and “On Your Porch”, but stocking it full of new material off of their latest album Boycott Heaven, this tour strikes a healthy balance between nostalgia and, well, Fun. The earnest music is underpinned by some extremely feel-good organizing action as well. Ruess has created supporting events that follow the tour route, bringing together local community groups and fans to register new voters and form coalitions dedicated to making the world a better place. 

Check out Wendy’s photo from the show below.