NEW YORK, NY—Fresh off of the release of their fourth studio album, New Jersey’s My Chemical Romance headlined WRXP’s Yule Rock concert at the Roseland Ballroom. Gaslight Anthem opened the show alongside Fifteen Fleeting, who won an unsigned band contest through Cabo Wabo and WRXP.
It was a colder than usual Friday night, but that didn’t take away from the killer rock show. People were camped outside Roseland from the day before to ensure their place in front of the stage for the show. Vitamin Water sponsored the concert and they were offering some tasty samples of a new flavor.
As I made my way upstairs, Vitamin Water gave me a full bottle of one of their beverages, which was awesome since I was driving that night. Free non-alcoholic beverages was a good way to start the night.
Gerard Way (with a new bright red hair do) and company played an energetic 18-song setlist to a sold out crowd. The gang entered to introduction bit “Look Alive Sunshine,” then immediately launched into their first single, “Na Na Na…”
Hands were flying through the air in the pit and the crowd sung almost every word to every song—even the new ones. Their set comprised of popular hits including “I’m Not Ok” and “Welcome To The Black Parade” with new songs, including the dance-rocker “Planetary Go!” and “Sing.” They even managed to squeeze in a Bob Dylan cover, with the song “Desolation Road.” In the middle of the set, Gerard thanked WRXP for “bringing rock back to New York.”
“Helena” closed their main set, with the entire ballroom singing in harmony with Gerard. The band came back out for their encore with “Cancer” and “The Kids From Yesterday.” A great way to spend a Friday night. An awesome way to welcome one of NJ’s favorites back to the area.
