Introduction to the Reunion Show
The long-anticipated reunion of Brand New took place on March 8, 2025, at Madison Square Garden, New York City. Fans had eagerly awaited this moment since the band announced an indefinite hiatus in 2018. The atmosphere was electric, filled with nostalgia, excitement, and the collective hope of hearing beloved tracks performed live once again.
Setlist Analysis
Opening with a Bang
The concert kicked off with “Sowing Season,” a track known for setting the tone with its powerful opening chords. This choice immediately drew the audience into the immersive experience, establishing an emotional connection that lasted throughout the night.
Deep Cuts and Rarities
One of the most remarkable aspects of the show was the inclusion of rarities and deep cuts seldom played live. Fans were thrilled to hear “Flying at Tree Level,” a track that had previously only surfaced as a demo. The band also surprised the audience with “Untitled 08,” a song that had been a mystery for years, its live debut finally fulfilling a long-standing fan wish.
Fan Favorites
Brand New ensured that fan favorites were not neglected. Songs like “The Quiet Things That No One Ever Knows,” “Jesus,” and “Sic Transit Gloria… Glory Fades” were performed with renewed energy, each met with enthusiastic sing-alongs from the crowd.
Setlist in Full
- Sowing Season
- Millstone
- At the Bottom
- Gasoline
- Flying at Tree Level
- The Quiet Things That No One Ever Knows
- Untitled 08
- Sic Transit Gloria… Glory Fades
- Jesus
- Luca
- Degausser
- You Won’t Know
- Sealed to Me
- Play Crack the Sky
Video Highlights
The reunion show was not only a feast for the ears but also for the eyes. A professionally shot video captured the essence of the night, showcasing the band’s chemistry and the crowd’s fervor. The video highlighted key moments such as the spontaneous chant of “Brand New, Brand New” during the encore and the emotional performance of “Play Crack the Sky,” which closed the show on a poignant note.
For those unable to attend, the video serves as an invaluable document of this historic event, encapsulating the magic of the reunion. Highlights can be accessed on major streaming platforms, ensuring that the experience reaches a global audience.
The Significance of Rare Song Performances
Brand New’s decision to include rare songs in their setlist not only delighted long-time fans but also showcased the band’s willingness to explore their extensive catalog. These performances provided a deeper insight into their musical evolution, offering glimpses of tracks that were previously only accessible through bootlegs or fan recordings.
By performing these rarities, Brand New reaffirmed their commitment to their art and their fans, making a bold statement about their future direction. The inclusion of these songs also sparked renewed interest in the band’s earlier works, prompting discussions and analyses across fan forums and music communities.
Conclusion
Brand New’s first reunion show in 2025 was a resounding success, offering an unforgettable night filled with emotional resonance, musical prowess, and fan service. The setlist, enriched with rarities and crowd-pleasers alike, demonstrated the band’s enduring appeal and their ability to surprise and satisfy their audience.
As the echoes of the final chords fade, the anticipation for future performances grows. Whether Brand New will continue to deliver such memorable experiences remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: their reunion has rekindled the passion of fans worldwide, ensuring their legacy endures for years to come.