Weezer’s two-night stop at The Anthem on September 14th and 15th for the 30th Anniversary of their debut album, the Blue Album, was a celebration one of rock’s finest. With support from two legendary bands, Dinosaur Jr. and The Flaming Lips, the experience was an electrifying and eclectic journey that captivated fans of multiple generations.
We attended night 2 of the Anniversary Tour.
The night kicked off with Dinosaur Jr., who brought their signature raw, gritty sound to The Anthem. J Mascis’ iconic guitar work was mesmerizing, while the thunderous basslines and pounding drums created a sonic wall that transported the audience back to the 90s.
Next up was The Flaming Lips, and true to form, their performance was a psychedelic spectacle. Wayne Coyne and the band’s energy were infectious. Amidst confetti explosions, colorful visuals, and Coyne’s trademark stage antics, the crowd was treated to a surreal experience. Standouts like “Do You Realize??” and “Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots, Pts 1 & 2,” had the entire venue singing along, and the immersive light show made it feel like an otherworldly trip.
By the time Weezer took the stage, the audience was primed and ready. The band opened with “Anonymous”, setting the tone for an evening that was both nostalgic and fresh. Rivers Cuomo, ever the quirky and enigmatic frontman, led the band through a tight set that spanned their decades-long career. Hits like “Buddy Holly,” “Island in the Sun,” and “Beverly Hills” had the crowd bouncing.
The Anthem’s acoustics highlighted the band’s polished sound, with Cuomo’s vocals clear and soaring over Brian Bell’s melodic guitar work and Scott Shriner’s solid basslines. Patrick Wilson’s drumming was as crisp as ever, driving the band forward throughout the set. Their performance was filled with energy, humor, and the undeniable chemistry that comes from decades of playing together.
Weezer’s Blue Voyage tour stop in Washington, DC was a masterclass in how to balance nostalgia with innovation. The band’s ability to keep fans engaged with both classic hits and new material made both nights unique and memorable. Dinosaur Jr. and The Flaming Lips brought their own distinct flavors, turning the entire event into a dream lineup for alternative rock fans. The Anthem, with its impressive sound system and intimate yet spacious vibe, provided the perfect venue for this two-night extravaganza.
Setlist
Anonymous
Return to Ithaka
Dope Nose
Hash Pipe
Pork and Beans
Beverly Hills
All My Favorite Songs
Island in the Sun
I Just Threw Out the Love of My Dreams
Perfect Situation
Run, Raven, Run
(Pinkerton Asteroid Belt)
Getchoo
Why Bother?
Pink Triangle
You Gave Your Love to Me Softly
Across the Sea
Weezer (The Blue Album)
My Name is Jonas
No One Else
The World Has Turned and Left Me Here
Buddy Holly
Undone – The Sweater Song
Surf Wax America
Say It Ain’t So
In the Garage
Holiday
Only in Dreams
Photos & Words: Victoria Ford