UK pop punk icons Neck Deep opened up “The Dumbstruck Dumbf!@k” North American Tour Tuesday, October 8th. After two hurricanes the band had a few changes to the calendar. Thus making Columbia SC’s stop at The Senate the opening night of the tour. Along for the tour special guests Like Roses and The Home Team.
Arriving at The Senate just before doors opened at 6pm I could tell that the line gathered outside was just the beginning of the crowd yet to come. The anticipation and excitement as patrons giggled and talked amongst themselves was infectious. There was also a comaraderie of those checking on each other from North Carolina. Due to Huricane Helene the Ashville show had to be canceled, however there were many NC fans in attendance.
Right on time, Like Roses took the stage, and this Bay Area band came ready to impress. Lead singer Amy Schmalkuche was absolutely captivating, showcasing a vocal range and energy rarely seen from an opening act. Drummer Dominic Jones and bassist Kayla Gonzalez laid down a solid rhythmic foundation, creating an infectious groove. Meanwhile, guitarist Devin Zamora brought a unique vibe that complemented the band’s sound perfectly. It’s clear these musicians are rapidly making their mark on the music scene, and I witnessed firsthand why they’re gaining attention.
As the stage was set, anticipation buzzed through the crowd, with fans eagerly awaiting The Home Team. With an abundance of energy, the band rushed on stage, launching directly into “Brag.” The audience immediately mirrored their excitement, transforming the room into a chaotic, electrified atmosphere.
The four-piece lineup consists of Brian Butcher (vocals), John Baron (guitar), Ryne Olson (bass), and Daniel Matson (drums). To say these musicians were electrified would be an understatement. John and Ryne were in perfect sync, executing high kicks throughout the entire set, while Brian owned every inch of the stage, fully immersing himself in the electrifying scene. Meanwhile, drummer Daniel provided a solid backbone, keeping everything in sync with his impressive technical skills.
As they closed out with “Loud,” the crowd was buzzing and more than ready for Neck Deep to take the stage.
The time had finally arrived. Neck Deep took the stage with a roar. Literally! Launching right into their single “Dumstruck Dumbf!@K” the crowd began sailing surfers over the barricade. I have not been to a show with such surging energy right from the start. Lead singer Ben Barlow could be seen high fiving and grabbing fans as the security guards were catching them.
Ben belted out song after song and the crowd kept giving. It was very clear from the start that some of the lyrics resonated deeply with the audience.
The chemistry of the band is something unmatched on the pop-punk scene. Drummer Matt Powles and bassist Seb Barlow laid down some of the tightest rhythems that laid the way for guitarists Matt West and Sam Bowden’s riffs to shine. Their performance encapsulated punk energy.
As Ben lost his voice and joked about the mistakes of an opening show the crowd was not ready for the night to end. He gave a heart felt speech to audience and told everyone to keep this energy and continue to look out for one another. Reminding us that we have more in common with one another then we think.
With the night coming to a close and chants of “one more song” rang out Neck Deep took the stage again to sing “December” and “In Bloom”.
With many dates still yet to come make sure you visit https://www.neckdeepuk.com/ to purchase tickets!
