Article and Photos by: Sarah Todd

Raleigh, NC — It’s been a hot and humid July here in North Carolina, but that didn’t stop thousands of excited concertgoers from gathering at the Coastal Credit Union Music Park this past Sunday for a night of nostalgic rock. With A R I Z O N A and Yellowcard set to open, the energy was noticeable even before the main act, Third Eye Blind, took the stage.

The evening kicked off with A R I Z O N A, an indie-pop band known for their eclectic sound and infectious energy. From the first note, it was clear that Arizona was determined to make a lasting impression. Their set was a blend of synth-driven melodies and catchy hooks, drawing the audience in with tracks like “Oceans Away” and “Electric Touch.” The band’s charisma was evident as lead vocalist Zachary Charles engaged with the crowd, sharing anecdotes between songs and encouraging sing-alongs. Arizona’s performance was a perfect warm-up, setting an upbeat tone for the night.

Next up was Yellowcard, a band that has been a staple in the pop-punk scene since the early 2000s. The crowd erupted as the band launched into “Lights and Sounds,” a high-energy track that immediately reignited the youthful spirit of everyone present. Yellowcard’s signature sound, characterized by Sean Mackin’s violin solos, added a unique layer to their performance. The band played a mix of fan favorites, with songs like “The Hurt is Gone” and “Ocean Avenue” resonating deeply with the audience. Ryan Key’s vocals were as powerful as ever, and the band’s tight performance left no doubt that they are still at the top of their game.

As the sun set and the stage lights dimmed, the anticipation for Third Eye Blind reached its peak. The band took the stage to thunderous applause, opening with “Motorcycle Drive By,” a beloved track off their self-titled first album. Stephan Jenkins, 3EB’s charismatic frontman, commanded the stage with an effortless coolness, his voice as distinctive and emotive as ever (sidenote: how this guy is nearly 60 years old is hard to believe… and makes me feel old). The setlist was a well-balanced blend of old and new songs, with timeless classics like “Semi-Charmed Life,” “Jumper,” and “How’s It Going to Be” sparking a wave of nostalgia among the fans.

Third Eye Blind’s performance was a testament to their enduring appeal. Jenkins’s engaging stage presence and candid interactions with the crowd created an intimate atmosphere, despite the large venue. Highlights included an acoustic portion of the set, with songs like “Slow Motion,” “The Background,” and “Blinded (When I See You),” which had the crowd swaying and singing along, and an electrifying performance of “Semi-Charmed Life” that had everyone on their feet. The band’s chemistry was evident, with each member contributing to the dynamic sound that has defined Third Eye Blind for decades now.

The evening concluded with “How’s It Going to Be,” and as the final chords echoed through the amphitheater, it was clear that Third Eye Blind had delivered a performance that, for those in attendance, would surely be a highlight of the summer.