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The Offspring won''t stop entertaining you (Syracuse concert review, photos, setlist)

The Offspring Deliver Timeless Energy at Syracuse Concert: A Night of Punk Rock Nostalgia and High-Octane Fun

Syracuse, NY – In a electrifying display of enduring punk rock spirit, The Offspring took the stage at the Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater on a balmy summer evening, proving once again why they've remained a staple in the alternative music scene for over three decades. The band, fronted by the charismatic Dexter Holland and guitarist Noodles (Kevin Wasserman), didn't just perform; they ignited a full-throttle celebration of their catalog, blending nostalgia with raw energy that had the crowd moshing, singing, and reminiscing about the '90s and beyond. This concert, part of their ongoing tour, was a testament to their refusal to slow down, as the review aptly captures: The Offspring won't stop entertaining you.

The night kicked off with an air of anticipation as fans of all ages filed into the amphitheater, a venue perfectly suited for outdoor rock spectacles with its sprawling lawn and intimate seating. Opening acts set the tone, but it was clear everyone was there for the headliners. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the stage, The Offspring emerged to thunderous applause. Holland, with his signature bleached hair and infectious grin, grabbed the mic and launched straight into "Come Out and Play," the iconic track from their 1994 breakthrough album *Smash*. The opening riff sent shockwaves through the audience, with fans immediately chanting along to the unforgettable "You gotta keep 'em separated" hook. It was a perfect opener, encapsulating the band's knack for blending catchy melodies with punk aggression.

From there, the setlist unfolded like a greatest hits compilation, meticulously curated to keep the energy peaking without a single lull. Following the opener, they dove into "All I Want," a high-speed punk anthem that had the pit swirling with enthusiastic moshers. Holland's vocals, still sharp and powerful at 59, cut through the mix, while Noodles' guitar work added layers of gritty distortion. Drummer Pete Parada and bassist Todd Morse rounded out the rhythm section with precision, driving the songs forward like a well-oiled machine. The band's chemistry was palpable; they've been through lineup changes over the years, but this current iteration feels as tight as ever.

One of the standout moments came early with "Staring at the Sun," where Holland paused to engage the crowd, asking, "Syracuse, are you ready to rock?" The response was deafening, a sea of raised fists and glowing phone screens. This interaction highlighted The Offspring's strength: they're not just performers; they're entertainers who know how to connect. Noodles, ever the showman, cracked jokes between songs, reminiscing about past tours and poking fun at the band's age. "We're not getting older, we're getting better!" he quipped, eliciting laughs and cheers.

As the set progressed, they delved into deeper cuts and fan favorites. "Bad Habit" brought out the raw punk edge, with its aggressive lyrics about societal frustrations resonating just as strongly today as in the mid-'90s. The crowd's energy surged during "Gotta Get Away," a track that showcases Holland's ability to shift from melodic verses to explosive choruses. Visually, the stage production was straightforward yet effective – pyrotechnics during key moments, vibrant lighting that synced with the beats, and massive screens displaying lyrics and band visuals to ensure even those on the lawn felt included.

Midway through, the band slowed things down – relatively speaking – with "Gone Away," a poignant ballad dedicated to lost loved ones. Holland's emotive delivery turned the amphitheater into a moment of collective reflection, with lighters (or phone flashlights) waving in unison. It was a brief respite before ramping back up with "Want You Bad," a pop-punk gem that had couples dancing and singles jumping. The diversity in the setlist was impressive, pulling from albums like *Ixnay on the Hombre*, *Americana*, and even newer material from *Let the Bad Times Roll* (2021). Tracks like "Let the Bad Times Roll" and "Army of One" proved the band isn't resting on laurels; they're still crafting relevant, anthemic songs that fit seamlessly alongside their classics.

No Offspring concert would be complete without the mega-hits that defined a generation. "Pretty Fly (For a White Guy)" was a highlight, with its humorous lyrics and infectious beat turning the venue into a massive sing-along. Holland encouraged the crowd to rap along to the verses, and they obliged with gusto. "Why Don't You Get a Job?" followed, blending ska influences with punk attitude, while "The Kids Aren't Alright" struck a chord with its themes of suburban disillusionment. The latter, in particular, felt timeless, as fans from Gen X to Gen Z connected with its message.

The encore was nothing short of explosive. After a brief exit, the band returned with "You're Gonna Go Far, Kid," a post-2000 hit that bridges their eras. The grand finale featured "Self Esteem," arguably their most enduring anthem. As the opening chords rang out, the amphitheater erupted. Holland's lyrics about insecurity and relationships hit home, with the entire crowd screaming, "La la la la la la la la!" It was a cathartic close, leaving everyone buzzing.

Photos from the event capture the essence perfectly: wide shots of the packed venue under the night sky, close-ups of Holland mid-scream, Noodles shredding on guitar, and crowd reactions ranging from ecstatic jumps to heartfelt sing-alongs. One image shows a fan hoisted on shoulders, fist-pumping during "Come Out and Play," embodying the communal joy. Another highlights the band's playful side, with Noodles grinning mischievously at the camera.

Overall, this Syracuse show reaffirmed The Offspring's status as punk rock survivors who continue to evolve while honoring their roots. At a time when many legacy acts phone it in, Holland and company delivered with genuine passion, high energy, and a setlist that spanned their career without missing a beat. The concert wasn't just a performance; it was a reminder of why punk rock endures – it's fun, rebellious, and unifying. Fans left the amphitheater exhilarated, already anticipating the next time The Offspring rolls through town. If this review is any indication, they won't stop entertaining anytime soon.

For those who missed it, here's the full setlist from the night:

Come Out and Play 2. All I Want 3. Staring at the Sun 4. Bad Habit 5. Gotta Get Away 6. Gone Away 7. Want You Bad 8. Let the Bad Times Roll 9. Army of One 10. Pretty Fly (For a White Guy) 11. Why Don't You Get a Job? 12. The Kids Aren't Alright 13. Original Prankster 14. Hit That 15. Hammerhead 16. You're Gonna Go Far, Kid (Encore) 17. Self Esteem (Encore)

This concert was more than music; it was a vibrant chapter in The Offspring's ongoing story, one that keeps fans coming back for more. In Syracuse, they didn't just play – they conquered.

Read the Full syracuse.com Article at:
[ https://www.syracuse.com/entertainment/2025/07/the-offspring-wont-stop-entertaining-you-syracuse-concert-review-photos-setlist.html ]