Anberlin - Never Take Friendships Personal Twentieth Anniversary Tour Review
Supports: Emery and Watashi Wa
The Twentieth Anniversary Tour touched down in the historic district of Greensboro, North Carolina on May 29th 2026. The newly opened venue, the Pyrle was the host of the evening. The Pyrle gives both an elegant and modern vibe to the community. A venue with both friendly and immersed staff. As an avid concert attendee, photographer and crew member this is important and appreciated. First impression of the Pyrle, an absolute love of the staff and presence.
Now let’s break down the evening! Kicking off the night was the ever chill yet energetic Watashi Wa (meaning “I Am” in Japanese). Watashi Wa originates from San Luis Obispo, California. Their genre, Christian/ Pop Rock with an Indie feel that had everyone dancing including the photographers in the photopit. Vocalist Seth Roberts brought the energy to the crowd with his vocals and stage presence, those stage kicks and moves never disappoint. A favorite from their set was the peaceful light hearted feel they brought as a whole. Their music though energetic at times still brought a soft welcoming sense of calm. Absolutely recommend checking out Watashi Wa and their latest album release “People Like People”.
Post hardcore band Emery originating from South Carolina ( Relocated to Seattle) took the stage next. Lead singer Toby Morrell entered the stage uniquely from the elevator allowing the crowd the roar and holler at the entrance. Immediately, Emery took the fans back in time and gave every bit of the same skill from before. Vocals, harsh vocals, drums, guitar, bass and keys were top tier from beginning to end. The moment that hit hardest for me was when Josh Head grabbed his mic and stepped from behind the keys, hair down and delivered his part in “Edge of The World”. “My eyes are open for the first time, this place not yours, it's in my own eyes” . The crowd erupted!! I actually messaged one of my friends and was like if you haven’t heard of these guys, look them up. I have apparently been missing out as a hardcore fan and I was quite upset. Regardless, Emery has a new fan!
Headlining the evening and bringing these incredible friendships of the tour together was none other than Anberlin themselves. Fronting for the group was Matty Mullins, also front man of Memphis May Fire. Matty had stepped in to continue the touring journey alongside the other four members of Anberlin when vocalist Stephen Christian announced he would be unable to tour. By October 2023 Matty officially joined Anberlin.
House and stage lights dimmed and the video wall played variations of “Anberlin” in creative flows preparing the crowd for the final act. The crowd both surged and stood still in various areas with anticipation. The members minus Matty entered the stage and began to stretch, the crowd roared, Matty entered, again the crowd took too the band gathered and they let the presence take over. Iconic songs like Paperthin Hym, The Feel Good Drag and A Day Late were sung in absolute unison across the venue as fans had their hands and arms lifted high. The smiles were untouchable from both the band and fans that night. Truly a touching moment to witness.
The take away of the evening, each band never failed to mention the gratitude towards each other and their connections of their friendships throughout the years. They thanked each other, the fans and showed up. Most importantly they still gave the heart they had from the very beginning just with more experience, wisdom and love.
GALLERY
