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[post_content] => May 15th was one of those rare nights at The Lodge Room where the room felt sacred. Not because we were mourning someone who passed, but because we were saying goodbye to a living legend. After more than a decade of calling L.A. home, King Tuff—aka Kyle Thomas—was leaving the city to head back to his native Vermont. No funeral, no drama, just a farewell show packed with friends, fans, and deep cuts. Still, it carried that weird weight. A little celebratory, a little emotional. The kind of night where people linger a little longer in their hugs and the encore feels more like a thank-you note than a victory lap.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
For those who haven’t followed his journey, King Tuff came up in Brattleboro, Vermont, playing in freak-folk outfits like Feathers before co-founding the stoner metal band Witch with J Mascis. From there, he broke out as a solo act under the King Tuff moniker, releasing Was Dead in 2008—an album that would later go on to cult status when it was reissued by Burger Records and Sub Pop in 2013. The self-titled King Tuff LP in 2012 pushed him further into the spotlight with tracks like “Bad Thing” and “Keep on Movin’,” all saturated in glittery garage rock energy. 2014’s Black Moon Spell solidified his role as the crown prince of weird indie rock, while 2018’s The Other showed us a more introspective side of Kyle, dialing down the glam but doubling up on the soul. Los Angeles was where a lot of that evolution happened. The scene here embraced him as one of their own, and in return, he gave us years of unforgettable music, collaborations, and shows that always felt like house parties that just happened to be sold out.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongKing Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongKing Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
And this farewell gig? It felt like a family reunion disguised as a concert. The night began with a series of short sets from friends and collaborators, each performing a couple of songs in honor of Tuff. The first act out the gate was billed as the Dirty Projectors, though what we actually got was a slowed-down, slightly absurd cover of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The audience chuckled at first, then paused, unsure whether this was a sincere tribute or a joke. It honestly mirrored how I feel about RHCP in general—so much respect for their legacy and individual musicianship, but these days they toe that line between serious and satirical a little too often.
Dirty Projectors at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Next up was Rodrigo Amarante, who delivered a tender love ballad I couldn’t name, but it was enough to silence the room. His voice floated over the crowd like a lullaby, dedicated to Tuff, who watched from backstage. Rodrigo mentioned they used to be neighbors up in Mt. Washington, which—if you’ve been paying attention to L.A. music lore—might as well be Olympus, considering how many legends live up there. It became a recurring theme of the night: “I used to live down the street from Kyle.” Apparently Mt. Washington is where the magic lives.
Rodrigo Amarante at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then came someone I actually recognized right away: Tim Heidecker. Yes, that Tim Heidecker of Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job! fame. He told a wild story about meeting Kyle at something called a “bass circle.” Not a drum circle. A bass circle. He casually mentioned Beck was there too, and they were all sitting on a massive lazy Susan. I half expected him to say they summoned a UFO, but instead, he launched into a set of original comedic songs. He introduced them as lost Simon and Garfunkel B-sides, which was both accurate and hilarious. Somehow, it all worked.
Tim Heidecker at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
After Tim came Shannon Shaw of Shannon & The Clams and Hunx and His Punx. She played two swoon-worthy originals, holding the crowd in her velvet-gloved grip. And yes, she was joined by her famous little pup Spanky Joe, trotting along like a showbiz veteran. It wouldn’t be a Shannon Shaw appearance without him.
Shannon Shaw at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongSpanky Joe at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The last of the pre-Tuff performances came courtesy of Kevin Morby, who you might know from The Babies or his solo work. Kevin and Kyle have been close for years—they even shared an Instagram account at one point called Kevin & Kyle, where they’d document their songwriting sessions. Kevin played a few tracks inspired by their friendship, songs soaked in nostalgia and warmth. As he wrapped up his final number, the other performers returned to the stage for a group sing-along, turning the tribute into a full-on lovefest.
Kevin Morby at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then it was time. After a quick intermission, King Tuff took the stage, solo and acoustic. He greeted the crowd with a smile and some big news: he’d just finished recording a new album under his own imprint. It’ll be the first release on his label, and the record’s called Cozy & Twisted Vol. 1: Grandma’s Favorites. No release date yet, but he’d hand-pressed a limited batch of copies to sell that night. The DIY spirit is alive and well. He played a few selections from the record, including “Night Owl” and “It’s a Turtle’s World,” stripped down to their bare bones. The songs felt personal, almost like lullabies from another dimension.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then came the electricity. Literally.
Kyle strapped on an electric guitar, brought out his band, and launched into “Dancing on You.” That’s when it hit me: I wasn’t leaving. I had a 7 a.m. flight to Kentucky the next morning and had originally planned to dip halfway through. But as soon as those opening chords rang out, that plan evaporated. I was glued to the floor like the rest of the crowd.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The set exploded from there. “Sun Medallion,” “Black Moon Spell,” “Headbanger”—one banger after another. Tuff and his band were locked in, feeding off the audience’s energy, which only got more feverish with each track. By the time they closed with “Anthem,” the room felt like it was on the verge of liftoff. And when they walked off The Lodge Roomstage, the crowd erupted, refusing to let the night end. Chants of “Tuff! Tuff! Tuff!” echoed through the venue until he reappeared, visibly moved.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The encore was everything it needed to be. He came back out and tore into “Bad Thing,” the song that made a lot of people fall in love with him in the first place. He followed it with “I Love You Ugly,” a deep cut that says more in its title than most artists say in entire albums. It was raw, sincere, and a little messy—just like the best goodbyes. The only thing missing was “Alone & Stoned,” but I wasn’t mad about it. The rest of the night had more than delivered.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
There’s a unique kind of magic that happens when someone leaves a place not because they have to, but because it’s time. King Tuff wasn’t chased out of L.A. by burnout or failure. He left on his own terms, surrounded by friends and love and noise. This show wasn’t an ending—it was a handoff to the next chapter. And even though Vermont may be where he goes to make his next batch of songs, a part of Kyle Thomas will always live in Los Angeles. In the garages and practice spaces, in the weird Mt. Washington jam circles, in the late-night diners after a gig when someone says, “Remember that King Tuff show?”
We’ll remember.
Until next time, Tuffy.
Words and Photos: Taylor Wong
[post_title] => King Tuff Unloads His Clip With A Farewell Show At The Lodge Room
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Vans Warped Tour is Back! 2025 Lineup, Cities & Dates
For fans who grew up sweating through Vans sneakers in parking lots, clutching crumpled setlists, and discovering their favorite bands by accident—this is the moment you’ve been waiting for. After six long years of silence, Vans Warped Tour is officially returning in 2025. And it’s not just back. It’s bigger, bolder, and ready to ignite a new generation of fans.Once the lifeblood of youthful punk rock summers, Warped Tour was more than just a traveling concert—it was a cultural pilgrimage. Whether you were crowd-surfing to A Day To Remember or picking up zines at the PETA tent, every stop felt like a shared rite of passage. Since its final tour in 2019, fans have kept the flame alive through throwback playlists, tattered wristbands, and countless Reddit threads asking the same question: “Will Warped ever come back?”Now, it has—and the announcement didn’t just ripple through the music scene. It detonated. Reddit and X exploded. Music blogs lit up. Longtime fans and scene veterans reunited across timelines, screaming in all caps: “WARPED IS BACK.”But this isn’t just a victory lap or a reunion tour. Warped Tour 2025 is a full-fledged rebirth—one that honors its rebellious roots while embracing everything that hypes up the new generation of fans.Here’s your full breakdown of what to expect: the 2025 lineup, tour dates, city stops, ticket info, and all the new twists that are turning this comeback into a must-attend event.
A Look Back: The Legacy of Vans Warped Tour
Before we get into the future, let’s rewind to how we got here.Warped Tour was born in 1995, created by music industry vet Kevin Lyman as a way to connect the world of punk rock with extreme sports culture. Vans came onboard that same year, and a movement was born. With its rotating stages, cheap tickets, and barebones setup, Warped quickly earned a reputation as the punk rock summer camp—a place where bands and fans mingled without barriers and every performance felt like it could be your last.Warped Tour became a launchpad for now-iconic artists—Blink-182, Paramore, Fall Out Boy, My Chemical Romance, and even pop names like Katy Perry and 3OH!3. But its legacy wasn’t just in the music, as it was also one of the first mainstream tours to intertwine activism into the live music experience. Rows of tents gave voice to nonprofits like To Write Love On Her Arms, Invisible Children, and PETA, making sure that fans left with something that meant more than just merch.It wasn’t always pretty. Warped was sweaty, loud, chaotic, and often the subject of artist controversies—but its hands-off unregulated nature was part of what made Warped Tour so unique. It was real. And when the tour wrapped for what was supposed to be the last time in 2019, fans around the world mourned the end of an era.But eras have a funny way of circling back. And in 2025, Warped isn’t just a throwback—it’s a cultural reset.
What’s New for Vans Warped Tour 2025?
If you’re expecting Warped 2025 to be the same old dusty stages and sunstroke-inducing chaos, think again. This revival is a fully reimagined experience designed to meet fans where they are—without losing the gritty charm that made Warped iconic in the first place. Rather than the traveling circus that it once was, it’s going to feel more like an established high-quality festival catered to our current adult needs.Here’s what’s different:
Fewer Stops, Bigger Stages
Gone are the days of 40+ back-to-back dates on blacktop parking lots. Warped Tour 2025 is targeting a few major cities with carefully curated, festival-style setups. Think: multiple stages, more space, better production, and longer set times. You won’t be chasing overlapping bands nearly as much—you’ll be immersed in full-day (and in some cases, weekend-long) experiences.
Multi-Day Events
At key stops like Long Beach, CA, Warped is expanding into multi-day events, making room for rotating lineups, exclusive merch drops, local food vendors, and skate/BMX exhibitions. It's more immersive, more flexible, and built for weekend warriors.
A Fresh Genre Mix
The core still pulses with punk, ska, emo, and hardcore, but 2025 reflects today’s eclectic tastes. Metalcore, post-hardcore, pop-punk revival, and even alt-hip-hop artists are joining the bill. This year’s lineup reads like a mashup of your middle school iPod and your FYP on TikTok—and it works.
Gen Z-Focused Fan Experience
From interactive installations and social media activations to mental health zones and safe spaces, Warped 2025 is built with the next generation in mind. There will still be mosh pits and Vans slip-ons, but they’ll coexist with wellness booths, LGBTQ+ affirming spaces, and creator-friendly media hubs. It's still gritty—but now it’s got a bit more guidance for newcomers.
New Faces Behind the Curtain
While the Vans branding remains, 2025 sees a new mix of partners, producers, and visionaries stepping in to help scale the tour for a modern era. That means improved logistics, better artist support, and a more polished fan experience—without sanding off the rough edges that made Warped authentic in the first place.
Organizers are also teasing surprise guests and secret sets—just like the old days.“We wanted to bring back that magic where you stumble upon a band you didn’t know you loved,” said one Vans Warped Tour spokesperson on Reddit.
2025 Vans Warped Tour Dates & Cities
After a six-year hiatus, the Warped Tour will make stops in three U.S. cities for its 30th anniversary:
Washington, D.C. – Festival Grounds at RFK Campus – June 14–15, 2025
Long Beach, California – Shoreline Waterfront – July 26–27, 2025
Orlando, Florida – Camping World Stadium – November 15–16, 2025
Lineups for Each Vans Warped Tour Stop
2025 Warped Tour Washington, D.C. Lineup Highlights
In addition to the musical acts, attendees can look forward to various experiences; including Artist Alley, Sponsor Village, Extreme Sports showcases, Record Label Row, Charity Circle, the Warped Tour Museum, and Culture Curators.For the complete Washington, D.C., lineup and more details, visit theofficial Vans Warped Tour DC website.
Avril Lavigne – The princess of mall punk herself is going to have everybody in attendance flipping out and singing along to "Sk8er Boi" and “Girlfriend” in what is sure to be a historic turnout of fans for the festival.
All Time Low – Baltimore natives bringing their energetic pop-punk sound and cheesy emo lyrics to the festival, being a mainstay of Warped Tour history throughout their career. Your girlfriend definitely had a shirt of theirs that she bought at Hot Topic back in the day, and this is going to be one of the most nostalgic sets for many people there.
August Burns Red – Grammy-nominated metalcore band known for technical prowess, being one of the most memorable and talked about bands from the metalcore takeover of Warped Tour that happened in the 00’s.
Blessthefall – Post-hardcore veterans of Warped, delivering high-octane performances and known for their heavy, emotional sound. They’re a classic within the scene, and should not be missed by any post-hardcore enthusiast.
Dance Hall Crashers – Late 80’s ska-punk band that started out as a spin-off of Operation Ivy; being in the circle pit for their upbeat rhythms is what Warped Tour (and summer as a whole) is all about.
FEVER 333 – Activist rapcore trio delivering politically charged performances. If you’re a fan of nu-metal or industrial metal, they’re one of the most notable acts carrying the torch today.
Fishbone – Funky ska-punk veterans that blow everyone else out of the water in any lineup they appear on. If you’ve never seen Fishbone before, be prepared to groove down and get funky like you never have before.
Four Year Strong – Melodic hardcore band with a blend of pop-punk and heavy riffs. Even the hardcore purists love these guys, and they could not fit into a better lineup than this one.
Hawthorne Heights – Emo band known for their heartfelt lyrics and dynamic sound, Hawthorne Heights were one of the staple bands of Warped Tour emo throughout the 00’s. The lineup would not be complete without them.
Ice Nine Kills – Horror-inspired metalcore band, Ice Nine Kills is going to bring the nighttime theatrics of a massive metal show to the daytime summer heat. It’s sure to be an interesting mix for everyone.
Less Than Jake – One of the best bands to see if you’re looking for some cheesy 90’s ska-punk nostalgia, but Less Than Jake does genuinely tear down the house on every lineup they play even if you’re a skeptic of the genre. We are excited to break out the checkered Vans to skank for this one.
Miss May I – Metalcore band known for their aggressive sound and melodic elements, Miss May I is a staple band within the Warped Tour catalog, and are definitely going to bring some hardcore dancers to the pit.
Pennywise – The pinnacle of 90’s skate punk that almost doesn’t need an introduction. Pennywise is sure to bring the energy of Warped Tour’s beginnings in the 90’s to modern audiences, and old-heads are going to be running the mosh pit for this one.
State Champs – Modern pop-punk band bringing catchy hooks and energetic sets. They were a bit late to joining the consistent Warped Tour lineup of bands, but they’re an essential band of the festival’s history nonetheless.
Sublime – Kings of 90’s reggae and ska-punk fronted by the late Brad Nowell’s son Jakob, who does an incredible job fronting the current lineup and keeping Sublime’s spirit alive in a way that nobody else would be able to.
The Wonder Years – One of the most important bands of the 2010’s emo boom, with introspective lyrics and powerful performances.This is gonna be an emotional one, but be prepared to mosh as well.
311 – 90’s alternative rock band known for their fusion of rock, reggae, and funk. Be prepared to see dreadlocks and clouds of smoke for as far as the eye can see.
3OH!3 – Electronic music duo that pretty much ran the Warped Tour lineup in the later 00’s, with “Don’t Trust Me” still being a sing-along anthem at any club worth going to.
A Day To Remember – One of the biggest bands of Warped Tour’s scene era, blending pop-punk with metalcore elements. The intro to “Downfall Of Us All” is sure to create the loudest gang vocals from the crowd of the whole weekend.
Asking Alexandria – British metalcore band with a dynamic stage presence. Although metalcore wasn’t a genre I gravitated towards, they blew me away when I saw them at Warped Tour back in 2012 and I will definitely be catching them again.
Atmosphere – Influential hip-hop duo blending introspective lyrics with experimental beats, Atmosphere has always had a cult following that will bring the most dedicated fans rapping along to every song.
Black Veil Brides – Glam metal band known for their theatrical style and over-the-top outfits, Black Veil Bands are a band you either love or hate. Regardless, they’re about to put on a flashy show that is sure to knock the socks off of their dedicated fanbase.
Bowling For Soup – Millennial-core pop-punk band known for their humorous and catchy tunes like “1985” and “High School Never Ends”. Are they going to play the Phineas And Ferb theme song? We wouldn’t miss that for the world, so we’ll be there to find out.
Bryce Vine – Former Glee audition finalist; this upcoming Hip-hop artist is known for hits like "Drew Barrymore" and "La La Land", even landing a collaboration with YG.
Chiodos – One of the biggest names in Post-hardcore circles that you could not escape during the height of Warped Tour. You will be sure to see fans bawling their eyes out and singing along to every word.
CKY – Alternative metal band with some of the grooviest riffs ever, that you definitely have heard through their association with the Jackass crew.
Cobra Starship – Dance-pop band that almost defined what the “scene” style was all about, famous for their catchy hooks and party anthems. You’re gonna want to be sure to break out your brightly colored skinny jeans and goofy oversized glasses for this one.
Dropkick Murphys – Celtic punk band blending traditional Irish music with hardcore punk, who are sure to have the most aggressive pit of the weekend when the bagpipes to “I’m Shipping Up To Boston” come in.
Falling In Reverse – Post-hardcore band fronted by the infamous Ronnie Radke with a blend of metalcore and pop elements. “Why do good girls like bad guys?” Radke’s about to show us, either by giving the performance of the ultimate anti-hero or a complete crashout. We could not be more excited to see for ourselves.
Ice-T AND Body Count – Absolutely legendary thrash metal band fronted by rapper Ice-T. It’s almost unbelievable that they’re playing Warped Tour, being much more dark and aggressive than most of the lineup. You don’t want to be caught slipping in the mosh pit when they play “Cop Killer”.
Landon Barker – Son of Travis Barker, Landon is an emerging rapper with pop-punk influences. If you’re a fan of MGK or Lil Peep, this is a set you’re going to want to see.
Rise Against – Punk rock band known for their melodic hardcore sound and politically charged lyrics. While they do have a bit of a bro following and can be definitely classified as KROQ-core, they absolutely kill it live and frontman Tim McIlrath has one of the most powerful voices in the genre.
Simple Plan – Early 00’s Canadian pop-punk band with hits like “I’m Just A Kid” and "Welcome to My Life". Come on, we at Janky Smooth know that they put out at least one song you love. Let your inner middle-schooler out and sing your heart out during their set.
The All-American Rejects – Undeniable early 00’s pop-punk legends that infected every radio station with “Dirty Little Secret” and "Gives You Hell”. Even for the casual fans, this is going to feel like the most epic night of karaoke with all of the hits they have.
The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus – Emo band famous for their hit "Face Down” that you could not escape in 2006. They were one of the most talked about bands during the Myspace era, and are sure to be one of the most anticipated sets of the weekend.
Yung Gravy – Goofy meme rapper known for his humorous lyrics and retro-inspired beats, Yung Gravy represents the carefree summer vibes that Warped Tour has always been about creating.
Attila – Known for their aggressive metalcore sound and nu-metal elements, Attila is going to get the spin-kicks going in the mosh pit and they are a huge throwback for early fans of the metalcore movement.
Beauty School Dropout – Emerging pop-punk band with catchy hooks and a rowdy spirit, Beauty School Dropout has already caught the attention of Pete Wentz of Fall Out Boy and Mark Hoppus of Blink-182. For older alternative music fans that have been out of the loop for a while, this should be on your radar.
Boundaries – Connecticut 2010’s hardcore band that is about to bring us an intense performance, embodying more influence from Hatebreed and the roots of hardcore than other bands of the metalcore boom.
Lacey Sturm – Former Flyleaf vocalist with a powerful solo presence, Lacey’s haunting vocals are going to bring chills down your spine in a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
MGK – Love-him-or-hate-him rapper turned pop-punk artist is sure to draw one of the largest crowds of the day. If you’re a skeptic of his ability to craft pop-punk, I highly recommend checking out his album “Mainstream Sellout” with Travis Barker. It’s an instant classic for the genre, even if you can’t stand the dude.
Slaughter to Prevail – Russian deathcore band known for their brutal sound and stage costumes. The online opinion is heavily split on these guys, but all of the buzz surrounding them is sure to make for a memorable set.
Plain White T’s – Pop-rock band famous for "Hey There Delilah", Plain White T’s are a blend of emo and indie influences that could have only existed at the time they came out. Be prepared for it to feel like 2006 again when they take the stage.
Yellowcard – Pop-punk band known for their incorporation of violins and their massive 2003 release “Ocean Avenue”. It’s a huge bummer that they aren’t playing the Long Beach date, as they embody the nostalgic energy you want to experience at a day of Warped Tour in 2025.
How to Get Tickets (and What You Need to Know)
Tickets are currently sold out via the official Vans Warped Tour website and participating partners, but there is a waitlist that you can currently join for tickets that will become available. Pro tip: Follow@VansWarpedTour on X for real-time updates.
What to Expect at the Shows: Beyond the Music
Warped Tour 2025 is designed to be more than a concert—it’s a full-day experience.
Expect:
Multiple Stages with overlapping sets—just like old times.
Local food trucks and vegan/vegetarian vendors.
Merch booths with exclusive 2025 tour drops.
Interactive zones (tattoo pop-ups, fan art galleries, influencer meetups).
Nonprofit activations around mental health, LGBTQ+ youth, and climate action.
Security and medical teams will be on-site. There will also be shaded chill zones, hydration stations, and upgraded ADA accommodations.
Nostalgia Corner: Remembering Warped Tours Past
No Warped Tour coverage would be complete without a nod to the past. Whether you caught Paramore on a dusty side stage in 2005 before their Riot! days or got your first sunburn screaming along to All Time Low’s “Dear Maria” in 2012, Warped was more than just a show—it was a summer ritual.It was where scene kids met their future best friends (and sometimes exes), where aspiring musicians handed out burned CDs by the merch tent, and where the parking lot turned into a battleground of sweat, eyeliner, and Vans checkerboard slip-ons. For many, it was their first concert, first mosh pit, first sense of belonging.Here are just a few fan-favorite memories that live on in Warped legend:
2004 – My Chemical Romance’s breakout setBefore Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge took over Hot Topic shelves, MCR was tearing through early afternoon slots at Warped. In 100+ degree heat, they played to a modest but rabid crowd—and by the end of the summer, they were on their way to becoming one of the biggest bands in the world.
2006 – Underoath walks off stage mid-setMidway through their set in Atlanta, the band abruptly left due to technical issues and inter-band tension. It shocked fans, sparked message board drama, and added to the mythology of Warped being unpredictable in the best—and sometimes worst—ways.
2010 – Attack Attack!’s crabcore goes viralTheir synchronized squat-jumps became a meme before memes were mainstream. Whether you loved or hated it, you remember it.
2011 – The Wonder Years surprise set in a parking lotWhat started as an impromptu acoustic performance turned into a full-fledged mob of fans crowding around a van, singing every word. That DIY spontaneity was the soul of what Warped Tour represented.
2015 – Black Veil Brides fans and Pierce the Veil fans nearly split the crowdWith lineups getting heavier and more theatrical, 2015 was peak “scene wars” energy—eyeliner, patches, and battle jackets everywhere as fans picked their side of the beef.
2018 – The Final Cross-Country TourDubbed “The End of an Era,” Warped 2018 was a farewell soaked in tears, sweat, and nostalgia. Fans showed up in droves—some for the last time, others for the first—to say goodbye to the traveling punk circus that raised them.
Reddit is buzzing with reunion plans, throwback photos, and tour T-shirts dug out from closets. Some fans are recreating old Warped outfits, right down to the DIY bandanas and wristband stacks. Others are bringing their kids to 2025 as a kind of full-circle moment.And that’s the magic of Warped—it isn’t just a music festival. It’s a memory machine. A place where generations of misfits, punks, emo kids, and hardcore lifers found themselves and each other.Warped Tour 2025 isn’t just a comeback. It’s a bridge between what was and what’s still possible.
Final Thoughts: Why This Matters
Warped Tour 2025 isn’t just a concert—it’s a cultural reset. In an era where many fans feel disconnected from the alternative music scene or priced out of major festivals; Warped is stepping in to remind us how important these genres were in our lives, and also giving a space for younger audiences to experience it how we did back in the day. It’s messy. It’s sweaty. It’s loud.And it’s exactly what we’ve been missing.Whether you're reliving your teenage glory days or attending for the first time, this year’s Warped Tour is a chance to reconnect—with the music, with your people, and maybe with a part of yourself you forgot.See you in the pit.
FAQs About Warped Tour 2025
Are all ages welcome? Yes! Warped Tour has always been all-ages, and 2025 is no different. However, some VIP areas may have age restrictions.Can I bring a camera or bag?Small bags are allowed. Professional cameras (DSLRs) may require press credentials.Will there be water refill stations?Yes—fans are encouraged to bring empty reusable water bottles.Why isn’t Warped coming to Canada?Organizers cited logistical issues and costs. Canadian fans will need to travel to U.S. stops this year.
[post_title] => Warped Tour 2025: Full Lineup, Dates & Cities Announced
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[post_content] => Gang of Four will return to Los Angeles for their Long Goodbye Tour Stop at The Fonda on May 28th and we have a pair of tickets to giveaway.See below or on Instagram for details.In 2024, Gang of Four embarked on their “The Gang of Four: The Return of the Gang of Four” tour, featuring King, Burnham, and Allen together for the first time since 1981. Now in 2025, the band has announced what they’re calling their Long Goodbye Tour, a final worldwide celebration of their music and legacy. This farewell tour delivers 2 sets of emotionally charged performances. Set 1 is the Gang of Four album Entertainment! in it's entirety, with set 2 delivering the best of the rest with deeper cuts and personal stories reflecting on their 45-year journey.Gang of Four at The Roxy by Lindsay Arth
Janky Smooth is giving away a pair of tickets to one winner to see Gang of Four on their Long Goodbye tour stop at The Fonda Theater. You can buy tickets HERE
Or to Enter:
Follow @JankySmooth on Instagram
Like the original Gang of Four Giveaway Post in our feed.
Tag a Friend
Winner Will be announced Tuesday, May 27th at Noon pacific.
Good Luck!
The Long Goodbye is not just a farewell—it’s a pointed, punk-fueled reminder of Gang of Four’s enduring relevance. Their fusion of art, politics, and noise continues to resonate in a world still wrestling with many of the same contradictions they confronted decades ago.Their groundbreaking 1979 debut, Entertainment!, remains a landmark album, both for its stripped-down aesthetic and its sharp critique of consumerism, war, and social conditioning. The band’s early records, including Solid Gold and Songs of the Free, cemented their reputation as cerebral and confrontational innovators.Gang of Four at The Roxy by Lindsay Arth
[post_title] => Take This: Win a Pair of Tickets To See Gang of Four at The Fonda
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[post_content] => May 15th was one of those rare nights at The Lodge Room where the room felt sacred. Not because we were mourning someone who passed, but because we were saying goodbye to a living legend. After more than a decade of calling L.A. home, King Tuff—aka Kyle Thomas—was leaving the city to head back to his native Vermont. No funeral, no drama, just a farewell show packed with friends, fans, and deep cuts. Still, it carried that weird weight. A little celebratory, a little emotional. The kind of night where people linger a little longer in their hugs and the encore feels more like a thank-you note than a victory lap.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
For those who haven’t followed his journey, King Tuff came up in Brattleboro, Vermont, playing in freak-folk outfits like Feathers before co-founding the stoner metal band Witch with J Mascis. From there, he broke out as a solo act under the King Tuff moniker, releasing Was Dead in 2008—an album that would later go on to cult status when it was reissued by Burger Records and Sub Pop in 2013. The self-titled King Tuff LP in 2012 pushed him further into the spotlight with tracks like “Bad Thing” and “Keep on Movin’,” all saturated in glittery garage rock energy. 2014’s Black Moon Spell solidified his role as the crown prince of weird indie rock, while 2018’s The Other showed us a more introspective side of Kyle, dialing down the glam but doubling up on the soul. Los Angeles was where a lot of that evolution happened. The scene here embraced him as one of their own, and in return, he gave us years of unforgettable music, collaborations, and shows that always felt like house parties that just happened to be sold out.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongKing Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongKing Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
And this farewell gig? It felt like a family reunion disguised as a concert. The night began with a series of short sets from friends and collaborators, each performing a couple of songs in honor of Tuff. The first act out the gate was billed as the Dirty Projectors, though what we actually got was a slowed-down, slightly absurd cover of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The audience chuckled at first, then paused, unsure whether this was a sincere tribute or a joke. It honestly mirrored how I feel about RHCP in general—so much respect for their legacy and individual musicianship, but these days they toe that line between serious and satirical a little too often.
Dirty Projectors at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Next up was Rodrigo Amarante, who delivered a tender love ballad I couldn’t name, but it was enough to silence the room. His voice floated over the crowd like a lullaby, dedicated to Tuff, who watched from backstage. Rodrigo mentioned they used to be neighbors up in Mt. Washington, which—if you’ve been paying attention to L.A. music lore—might as well be Olympus, considering how many legends live up there. It became a recurring theme of the night: “I used to live down the street from Kyle.” Apparently Mt. Washington is where the magic lives.
Rodrigo Amarante at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then came someone I actually recognized right away: Tim Heidecker. Yes, that Tim Heidecker of Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job! fame. He told a wild story about meeting Kyle at something called a “bass circle.” Not a drum circle. A bass circle. He casually mentioned Beck was there too, and they were all sitting on a massive lazy Susan. I half expected him to say they summoned a UFO, but instead, he launched into a set of original comedic songs. He introduced them as lost Simon and Garfunkel B-sides, which was both accurate and hilarious. Somehow, it all worked.
Tim Heidecker at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
After Tim came Shannon Shaw of Shannon & The Clams and Hunx and His Punx. She played two swoon-worthy originals, holding the crowd in her velvet-gloved grip. And yes, she was joined by her famous little pup Spanky Joe, trotting along like a showbiz veteran. It wouldn’t be a Shannon Shaw appearance without him.
Shannon Shaw at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongSpanky Joe at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The last of the pre-Tuff performances came courtesy of Kevin Morby, who you might know from The Babies or his solo work. Kevin and Kyle have been close for years—they even shared an Instagram account at one point called Kevin & Kyle, where they’d document their songwriting sessions. Kevin played a few tracks inspired by their friendship, songs soaked in nostalgia and warmth. As he wrapped up his final number, the other performers returned to the stage for a group sing-along, turning the tribute into a full-on lovefest.
Kevin Morby at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then it was time. After a quick intermission, King Tuff took the stage, solo and acoustic. He greeted the crowd with a smile and some big news: he’d just finished recording a new album under his own imprint. It’ll be the first release on his label, and the record’s called Cozy & Twisted Vol. 1: Grandma’s Favorites. No release date yet, but he’d hand-pressed a limited batch of copies to sell that night. The DIY spirit is alive and well. He played a few selections from the record, including “Night Owl” and “It’s a Turtle’s World,” stripped down to their bare bones. The songs felt personal, almost like lullabies from another dimension.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then came the electricity. Literally.
Kyle strapped on an electric guitar, brought out his band, and launched into “Dancing on You.” That’s when it hit me: I wasn’t leaving. I had a 7 a.m. flight to Kentucky the next morning and had originally planned to dip halfway through. But as soon as those opening chords rang out, that plan evaporated. I was glued to the floor like the rest of the crowd.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The set exploded from there. “Sun Medallion,” “Black Moon Spell,” “Headbanger”—one banger after another. Tuff and his band were locked in, feeding off the audience’s energy, which only got more feverish with each track. By the time they closed with “Anthem,” the room felt like it was on the verge of liftoff. And when they walked off The Lodge Roomstage, the crowd erupted, refusing to let the night end. Chants of “Tuff! Tuff! Tuff!” echoed through the venue until he reappeared, visibly moved.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The encore was everything it needed to be. He came back out and tore into “Bad Thing,” the song that made a lot of people fall in love with him in the first place. He followed it with “I Love You Ugly,” a deep cut that says more in its title than most artists say in entire albums. It was raw, sincere, and a little messy—just like the best goodbyes. The only thing missing was “Alone & Stoned,” but I wasn’t mad about it. The rest of the night had more than delivered.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
There’s a unique kind of magic that happens when someone leaves a place not because they have to, but because it’s time. King Tuff wasn’t chased out of L.A. by burnout or failure. He left on his own terms, surrounded by friends and love and noise. This show wasn’t an ending—it was a handoff to the next chapter. And even though Vermont may be where he goes to make his next batch of songs, a part of Kyle Thomas will always live in Los Angeles. In the garages and practice spaces, in the weird Mt. Washington jam circles, in the late-night diners after a gig when someone says, “Remember that King Tuff show?”
We’ll remember.
Until next time, Tuffy.
Words and Photos: Taylor Wong
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[post_content] => May 15th was one of those rare nights at The Lodge Room where the room felt sacred. Not because we were mourning someone who passed, but because we were saying goodbye to a living legend. After more than a decade of calling L.A. home, King Tuff—aka Kyle Thomas—was leaving the city to head back to his native Vermont. No funeral, no drama, just a farewell show packed with friends, fans, and deep cuts. Still, it carried that weird weight. A little celebratory, a little emotional. The kind of night where people linger a little longer in their hugs and the encore feels more like a thank-you note than a victory lap.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
For those who haven’t followed his journey, King Tuff came up in Brattleboro, Vermont, playing in freak-folk outfits like Feathers before co-founding the stoner metal band Witch with J Mascis. From there, he broke out as a solo act under the King Tuff moniker, releasing Was Dead in 2008—an album that would later go on to cult status when it was reissued by Burger Records and Sub Pop in 2013. The self-titled King Tuff LP in 2012 pushed him further into the spotlight with tracks like “Bad Thing” and “Keep on Movin’,” all saturated in glittery garage rock energy. 2014’s Black Moon Spell solidified his role as the crown prince of weird indie rock, while 2018’s The Other showed us a more introspective side of Kyle, dialing down the glam but doubling up on the soul. Los Angeles was where a lot of that evolution happened. The scene here embraced him as one of their own, and in return, he gave us years of unforgettable music, collaborations, and shows that always felt like house parties that just happened to be sold out.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongKing Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongKing Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
And this farewell gig? It felt like a family reunion disguised as a concert. The night began with a series of short sets from friends and collaborators, each performing a couple of songs in honor of Tuff. The first act out the gate was billed as the Dirty Projectors, though what we actually got was a slowed-down, slightly absurd cover of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The audience chuckled at first, then paused, unsure whether this was a sincere tribute or a joke. It honestly mirrored how I feel about RHCP in general—so much respect for their legacy and individual musicianship, but these days they toe that line between serious and satirical a little too often.
Dirty Projectors at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Next up was Rodrigo Amarante, who delivered a tender love ballad I couldn’t name, but it was enough to silence the room. His voice floated over the crowd like a lullaby, dedicated to Tuff, who watched from backstage. Rodrigo mentioned they used to be neighbors up in Mt. Washington, which—if you’ve been paying attention to L.A. music lore—might as well be Olympus, considering how many legends live up there. It became a recurring theme of the night: “I used to live down the street from Kyle.” Apparently Mt. Washington is where the magic lives.
Rodrigo Amarante at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then came someone I actually recognized right away: Tim Heidecker. Yes, that Tim Heidecker of Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job! fame. He told a wild story about meeting Kyle at something called a “bass circle.” Not a drum circle. A bass circle. He casually mentioned Beck was there too, and they were all sitting on a massive lazy Susan. I half expected him to say they summoned a UFO, but instead, he launched into a set of original comedic songs. He introduced them as lost Simon and Garfunkel B-sides, which was both accurate and hilarious. Somehow, it all worked.
Tim Heidecker at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
After Tim came Shannon Shaw of Shannon & The Clams and Hunx and His Punx. She played two swoon-worthy originals, holding the crowd in her velvet-gloved grip. And yes, she was joined by her famous little pup Spanky Joe, trotting along like a showbiz veteran. It wouldn’t be a Shannon Shaw appearance without him.
Shannon Shaw at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongSpanky Joe at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The last of the pre-Tuff performances came courtesy of Kevin Morby, who you might know from The Babies or his solo work. Kevin and Kyle have been close for years—they even shared an Instagram account at one point called Kevin & Kyle, where they’d document their songwriting sessions. Kevin played a few tracks inspired by their friendship, songs soaked in nostalgia and warmth. As he wrapped up his final number, the other performers returned to the stage for a group sing-along, turning the tribute into a full-on lovefest.
Kevin Morby at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then it was time. After a quick intermission, King Tuff took the stage, solo and acoustic. He greeted the crowd with a smile and some big news: he’d just finished recording a new album under his own imprint. It’ll be the first release on his label, and the record’s called Cozy & Twisted Vol. 1: Grandma’s Favorites. No release date yet, but he’d hand-pressed a limited batch of copies to sell that night. The DIY spirit is alive and well. He played a few selections from the record, including “Night Owl” and “It’s a Turtle’s World,” stripped down to their bare bones. The songs felt personal, almost like lullabies from another dimension.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then came the electricity. Literally.
Kyle strapped on an electric guitar, brought out his band, and launched into “Dancing on You.” That’s when it hit me: I wasn’t leaving. I had a 7 a.m. flight to Kentucky the next morning and had originally planned to dip halfway through. But as soon as those opening chords rang out, that plan evaporated. I was glued to the floor like the rest of the crowd.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The set exploded from there. “Sun Medallion,” “Black Moon Spell,” “Headbanger”—one banger after another. Tuff and his band were locked in, feeding off the audience’s energy, which only got more feverish with each track. By the time they closed with “Anthem,” the room felt like it was on the verge of liftoff. And when they walked off The Lodge Roomstage, the crowd erupted, refusing to let the night end. Chants of “Tuff! Tuff! Tuff!” echoed through the venue until he reappeared, visibly moved.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The encore was everything it needed to be. He came back out and tore into “Bad Thing,” the song that made a lot of people fall in love with him in the first place. He followed it with “I Love You Ugly,” a deep cut that says more in its title than most artists say in entire albums. It was raw, sincere, and a little messy—just like the best goodbyes. The only thing missing was “Alone & Stoned,” but I wasn’t mad about it. The rest of the night had more than delivered.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
There’s a unique kind of magic that happens when someone leaves a place not because they have to, but because it’s time. King Tuff wasn’t chased out of L.A. by burnout or failure. He left on his own terms, surrounded by friends and love and noise. This show wasn’t an ending—it was a handoff to the next chapter. And even though Vermont may be where he goes to make his next batch of songs, a part of Kyle Thomas will always live in Los Angeles. In the garages and practice spaces, in the weird Mt. Washington jam circles, in the late-night diners after a gig when someone says, “Remember that King Tuff show?”
We’ll remember.
Until next time, Tuffy.
Words and Photos: Taylor Wong
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[post_content] =>
Vans Warped Tour is Back! 2025 Lineup, Cities & Dates
For fans who grew up sweating through Vans sneakers in parking lots, clutching crumpled setlists, and discovering their favorite bands by accident—this is the moment you’ve been waiting for. After six long years of silence, Vans Warped Tour is officially returning in 2025. And it’s not just back. It’s bigger, bolder, and ready to ignite a new generation of fans.Once the lifeblood of youthful punk rock summers, Warped Tour was more than just a traveling concert—it was a cultural pilgrimage. Whether you were crowd-surfing to A Day To Remember or picking up zines at the PETA tent, every stop felt like a shared rite of passage. Since its final tour in 2019, fans have kept the flame alive through throwback playlists, tattered wristbands, and countless Reddit threads asking the same question: “Will Warped ever come back?”Now, it has—and the announcement didn’t just ripple through the music scene. It detonated. Reddit and X exploded. Music blogs lit up. Longtime fans and scene veterans reunited across timelines, screaming in all caps: “WARPED IS BACK.”But this isn’t just a victory lap or a reunion tour. Warped Tour 2025 is a full-fledged rebirth—one that honors its rebellious roots while embracing everything that hypes up the new generation of fans.Here’s your full breakdown of what to expect: the 2025 lineup, tour dates, city stops, ticket info, and all the new twists that are turning this comeback into a must-attend event.
A Look Back: The Legacy of Vans Warped Tour
Before we get into the future, let’s rewind to how we got here.Warped Tour was born in 1995, created by music industry vet Kevin Lyman as a way to connect the world of punk rock with extreme sports culture. Vans came onboard that same year, and a movement was born. With its rotating stages, cheap tickets, and barebones setup, Warped quickly earned a reputation as the punk rock summer camp—a place where bands and fans mingled without barriers and every performance felt like it could be your last.Warped Tour became a launchpad for now-iconic artists—Blink-182, Paramore, Fall Out Boy, My Chemical Romance, and even pop names like Katy Perry and 3OH!3. But its legacy wasn’t just in the music, as it was also one of the first mainstream tours to intertwine activism into the live music experience. Rows of tents gave voice to nonprofits like To Write Love On Her Arms, Invisible Children, and PETA, making sure that fans left with something that meant more than just merch.It wasn’t always pretty. Warped was sweaty, loud, chaotic, and often the subject of artist controversies—but its hands-off unregulated nature was part of what made Warped Tour so unique. It was real. And when the tour wrapped for what was supposed to be the last time in 2019, fans around the world mourned the end of an era.But eras have a funny way of circling back. And in 2025, Warped isn’t just a throwback—it’s a cultural reset.
What’s New for Vans Warped Tour 2025?
If you’re expecting Warped 2025 to be the same old dusty stages and sunstroke-inducing chaos, think again. This revival is a fully reimagined experience designed to meet fans where they are—without losing the gritty charm that made Warped iconic in the first place. Rather than the traveling circus that it once was, it’s going to feel more like an established high-quality festival catered to our current adult needs.Here’s what’s different:
Fewer Stops, Bigger Stages
Gone are the days of 40+ back-to-back dates on blacktop parking lots. Warped Tour 2025 is targeting a few major cities with carefully curated, festival-style setups. Think: multiple stages, more space, better production, and longer set times. You won’t be chasing overlapping bands nearly as much—you’ll be immersed in full-day (and in some cases, weekend-long) experiences.
Multi-Day Events
At key stops like Long Beach, CA, Warped is expanding into multi-day events, making room for rotating lineups, exclusive merch drops, local food vendors, and skate/BMX exhibitions. It's more immersive, more flexible, and built for weekend warriors.
A Fresh Genre Mix
The core still pulses with punk, ska, emo, and hardcore, but 2025 reflects today’s eclectic tastes. Metalcore, post-hardcore, pop-punk revival, and even alt-hip-hop artists are joining the bill. This year’s lineup reads like a mashup of your middle school iPod and your FYP on TikTok—and it works.
Gen Z-Focused Fan Experience
From interactive installations and social media activations to mental health zones and safe spaces, Warped 2025 is built with the next generation in mind. There will still be mosh pits and Vans slip-ons, but they’ll coexist with wellness booths, LGBTQ+ affirming spaces, and creator-friendly media hubs. It's still gritty—but now it’s got a bit more guidance for newcomers.
New Faces Behind the Curtain
While the Vans branding remains, 2025 sees a new mix of partners, producers, and visionaries stepping in to help scale the tour for a modern era. That means improved logistics, better artist support, and a more polished fan experience—without sanding off the rough edges that made Warped authentic in the first place.
Organizers are also teasing surprise guests and secret sets—just like the old days.“We wanted to bring back that magic where you stumble upon a band you didn’t know you loved,” said one Vans Warped Tour spokesperson on Reddit.
2025 Vans Warped Tour Dates & Cities
After a six-year hiatus, the Warped Tour will make stops in three U.S. cities for its 30th anniversary:
Washington, D.C. – Festival Grounds at RFK Campus – June 14–15, 2025
Long Beach, California – Shoreline Waterfront – July 26–27, 2025
Orlando, Florida – Camping World Stadium – November 15–16, 2025
Lineups for Each Vans Warped Tour Stop
2025 Warped Tour Washington, D.C. Lineup Highlights
In addition to the musical acts, attendees can look forward to various experiences; including Artist Alley, Sponsor Village, Extreme Sports showcases, Record Label Row, Charity Circle, the Warped Tour Museum, and Culture Curators.For the complete Washington, D.C., lineup and more details, visit theofficial Vans Warped Tour DC website.
Avril Lavigne – The princess of mall punk herself is going to have everybody in attendance flipping out and singing along to "Sk8er Boi" and “Girlfriend” in what is sure to be a historic turnout of fans for the festival.
All Time Low – Baltimore natives bringing their energetic pop-punk sound and cheesy emo lyrics to the festival, being a mainstay of Warped Tour history throughout their career. Your girlfriend definitely had a shirt of theirs that she bought at Hot Topic back in the day, and this is going to be one of the most nostalgic sets for many people there.
August Burns Red – Grammy-nominated metalcore band known for technical prowess, being one of the most memorable and talked about bands from the metalcore takeover of Warped Tour that happened in the 00’s.
Blessthefall – Post-hardcore veterans of Warped, delivering high-octane performances and known for their heavy, emotional sound. They’re a classic within the scene, and should not be missed by any post-hardcore enthusiast.
Dance Hall Crashers – Late 80’s ska-punk band that started out as a spin-off of Operation Ivy; being in the circle pit for their upbeat rhythms is what Warped Tour (and summer as a whole) is all about.
FEVER 333 – Activist rapcore trio delivering politically charged performances. If you’re a fan of nu-metal or industrial metal, they’re one of the most notable acts carrying the torch today.
Fishbone – Funky ska-punk veterans that blow everyone else out of the water in any lineup they appear on. If you’ve never seen Fishbone before, be prepared to groove down and get funky like you never have before.
Four Year Strong – Melodic hardcore band with a blend of pop-punk and heavy riffs. Even the hardcore purists love these guys, and they could not fit into a better lineup than this one.
Hawthorne Heights – Emo band known for their heartfelt lyrics and dynamic sound, Hawthorne Heights were one of the staple bands of Warped Tour emo throughout the 00’s. The lineup would not be complete without them.
Ice Nine Kills – Horror-inspired metalcore band, Ice Nine Kills is going to bring the nighttime theatrics of a massive metal show to the daytime summer heat. It’s sure to be an interesting mix for everyone.
Less Than Jake – One of the best bands to see if you’re looking for some cheesy 90’s ska-punk nostalgia, but Less Than Jake does genuinely tear down the house on every lineup they play even if you’re a skeptic of the genre. We are excited to break out the checkered Vans to skank for this one.
Miss May I – Metalcore band known for their aggressive sound and melodic elements, Miss May I is a staple band within the Warped Tour catalog, and are definitely going to bring some hardcore dancers to the pit.
Pennywise – The pinnacle of 90’s skate punk that almost doesn’t need an introduction. Pennywise is sure to bring the energy of Warped Tour’s beginnings in the 90’s to modern audiences, and old-heads are going to be running the mosh pit for this one.
State Champs – Modern pop-punk band bringing catchy hooks and energetic sets. They were a bit late to joining the consistent Warped Tour lineup of bands, but they’re an essential band of the festival’s history nonetheless.
Sublime – Kings of 90’s reggae and ska-punk fronted by the late Brad Nowell’s son Jakob, who does an incredible job fronting the current lineup and keeping Sublime’s spirit alive in a way that nobody else would be able to.
The Wonder Years – One of the most important bands of the 2010’s emo boom, with introspective lyrics and powerful performances.This is gonna be an emotional one, but be prepared to mosh as well.
311 – 90’s alternative rock band known for their fusion of rock, reggae, and funk. Be prepared to see dreadlocks and clouds of smoke for as far as the eye can see.
3OH!3 – Electronic music duo that pretty much ran the Warped Tour lineup in the later 00’s, with “Don’t Trust Me” still being a sing-along anthem at any club worth going to.
A Day To Remember – One of the biggest bands of Warped Tour’s scene era, blending pop-punk with metalcore elements. The intro to “Downfall Of Us All” is sure to create the loudest gang vocals from the crowd of the whole weekend.
Asking Alexandria – British metalcore band with a dynamic stage presence. Although metalcore wasn’t a genre I gravitated towards, they blew me away when I saw them at Warped Tour back in 2012 and I will definitely be catching them again.
Atmosphere – Influential hip-hop duo blending introspective lyrics with experimental beats, Atmosphere has always had a cult following that will bring the most dedicated fans rapping along to every song.
Black Veil Brides – Glam metal band known for their theatrical style and over-the-top outfits, Black Veil Bands are a band you either love or hate. Regardless, they’re about to put on a flashy show that is sure to knock the socks off of their dedicated fanbase.
Bowling For Soup – Millennial-core pop-punk band known for their humorous and catchy tunes like “1985” and “High School Never Ends”. Are they going to play the Phineas And Ferb theme song? We wouldn’t miss that for the world, so we’ll be there to find out.
Bryce Vine – Former Glee audition finalist; this upcoming Hip-hop artist is known for hits like "Drew Barrymore" and "La La Land", even landing a collaboration with YG.
Chiodos – One of the biggest names in Post-hardcore circles that you could not escape during the height of Warped Tour. You will be sure to see fans bawling their eyes out and singing along to every word.
CKY – Alternative metal band with some of the grooviest riffs ever, that you definitely have heard through their association with the Jackass crew.
Cobra Starship – Dance-pop band that almost defined what the “scene” style was all about, famous for their catchy hooks and party anthems. You’re gonna want to be sure to break out your brightly colored skinny jeans and goofy oversized glasses for this one.
Dropkick Murphys – Celtic punk band blending traditional Irish music with hardcore punk, who are sure to have the most aggressive pit of the weekend when the bagpipes to “I’m Shipping Up To Boston” come in.
Falling In Reverse – Post-hardcore band fronted by the infamous Ronnie Radke with a blend of metalcore and pop elements. “Why do good girls like bad guys?” Radke’s about to show us, either by giving the performance of the ultimate anti-hero or a complete crashout. We could not be more excited to see for ourselves.
Ice-T AND Body Count – Absolutely legendary thrash metal band fronted by rapper Ice-T. It’s almost unbelievable that they’re playing Warped Tour, being much more dark and aggressive than most of the lineup. You don’t want to be caught slipping in the mosh pit when they play “Cop Killer”.
Landon Barker – Son of Travis Barker, Landon is an emerging rapper with pop-punk influences. If you’re a fan of MGK or Lil Peep, this is a set you’re going to want to see.
Rise Against – Punk rock band known for their melodic hardcore sound and politically charged lyrics. While they do have a bit of a bro following and can be definitely classified as KROQ-core, they absolutely kill it live and frontman Tim McIlrath has one of the most powerful voices in the genre.
Simple Plan – Early 00’s Canadian pop-punk band with hits like “I’m Just A Kid” and "Welcome to My Life". Come on, we at Janky Smooth know that they put out at least one song you love. Let your inner middle-schooler out and sing your heart out during their set.
The All-American Rejects – Undeniable early 00’s pop-punk legends that infected every radio station with “Dirty Little Secret” and "Gives You Hell”. Even for the casual fans, this is going to feel like the most epic night of karaoke with all of the hits they have.
The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus – Emo band famous for their hit "Face Down” that you could not escape in 2006. They were one of the most talked about bands during the Myspace era, and are sure to be one of the most anticipated sets of the weekend.
Yung Gravy – Goofy meme rapper known for his humorous lyrics and retro-inspired beats, Yung Gravy represents the carefree summer vibes that Warped Tour has always been about creating.
Attila – Known for their aggressive metalcore sound and nu-metal elements, Attila is going to get the spin-kicks going in the mosh pit and they are a huge throwback for early fans of the metalcore movement.
Beauty School Dropout – Emerging pop-punk band with catchy hooks and a rowdy spirit, Beauty School Dropout has already caught the attention of Pete Wentz of Fall Out Boy and Mark Hoppus of Blink-182. For older alternative music fans that have been out of the loop for a while, this should be on your radar.
Boundaries – Connecticut 2010’s hardcore band that is about to bring us an intense performance, embodying more influence from Hatebreed and the roots of hardcore than other bands of the metalcore boom.
Lacey Sturm – Former Flyleaf vocalist with a powerful solo presence, Lacey’s haunting vocals are going to bring chills down your spine in a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
MGK – Love-him-or-hate-him rapper turned pop-punk artist is sure to draw one of the largest crowds of the day. If you’re a skeptic of his ability to craft pop-punk, I highly recommend checking out his album “Mainstream Sellout” with Travis Barker. It’s an instant classic for the genre, even if you can’t stand the dude.
Slaughter to Prevail – Russian deathcore band known for their brutal sound and stage costumes. The online opinion is heavily split on these guys, but all of the buzz surrounding them is sure to make for a memorable set.
Plain White T’s – Pop-rock band famous for "Hey There Delilah", Plain White T’s are a blend of emo and indie influences that could have only existed at the time they came out. Be prepared for it to feel like 2006 again when they take the stage.
Yellowcard – Pop-punk band known for their incorporation of violins and their massive 2003 release “Ocean Avenue”. It’s a huge bummer that they aren’t playing the Long Beach date, as they embody the nostalgic energy you want to experience at a day of Warped Tour in 2025.
How to Get Tickets (and What You Need to Know)
Tickets are currently sold out via the official Vans Warped Tour website and participating partners, but there is a waitlist that you can currently join for tickets that will become available. Pro tip: Follow@VansWarpedTour on X for real-time updates.
What to Expect at the Shows: Beyond the Music
Warped Tour 2025 is designed to be more than a concert—it’s a full-day experience.
Expect:
Multiple Stages with overlapping sets—just like old times.
Local food trucks and vegan/vegetarian vendors.
Merch booths with exclusive 2025 tour drops.
Interactive zones (tattoo pop-ups, fan art galleries, influencer meetups).
Nonprofit activations around mental health, LGBTQ+ youth, and climate action.
Security and medical teams will be on-site. There will also be shaded chill zones, hydration stations, and upgraded ADA accommodations.
Nostalgia Corner: Remembering Warped Tours Past
No Warped Tour coverage would be complete without a nod to the past. Whether you caught Paramore on a dusty side stage in 2005 before their Riot! days or got your first sunburn screaming along to All Time Low’s “Dear Maria” in 2012, Warped was more than just a show—it was a summer ritual.It was where scene kids met their future best friends (and sometimes exes), where aspiring musicians handed out burned CDs by the merch tent, and where the parking lot turned into a battleground of sweat, eyeliner, and Vans checkerboard slip-ons. For many, it was their first concert, first mosh pit, first sense of belonging.Here are just a few fan-favorite memories that live on in Warped legend:
2004 – My Chemical Romance’s breakout setBefore Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge took over Hot Topic shelves, MCR was tearing through early afternoon slots at Warped. In 100+ degree heat, they played to a modest but rabid crowd—and by the end of the summer, they were on their way to becoming one of the biggest bands in the world.
2006 – Underoath walks off stage mid-setMidway through their set in Atlanta, the band abruptly left due to technical issues and inter-band tension. It shocked fans, sparked message board drama, and added to the mythology of Warped being unpredictable in the best—and sometimes worst—ways.
2010 – Attack Attack!’s crabcore goes viralTheir synchronized squat-jumps became a meme before memes were mainstream. Whether you loved or hated it, you remember it.
2011 – The Wonder Years surprise set in a parking lotWhat started as an impromptu acoustic performance turned into a full-fledged mob of fans crowding around a van, singing every word. That DIY spontaneity was the soul of what Warped Tour represented.
2015 – Black Veil Brides fans and Pierce the Veil fans nearly split the crowdWith lineups getting heavier and more theatrical, 2015 was peak “scene wars” energy—eyeliner, patches, and battle jackets everywhere as fans picked their side of the beef.
2018 – The Final Cross-Country TourDubbed “The End of an Era,” Warped 2018 was a farewell soaked in tears, sweat, and nostalgia. Fans showed up in droves—some for the last time, others for the first—to say goodbye to the traveling punk circus that raised them.
Reddit is buzzing with reunion plans, throwback photos, and tour T-shirts dug out from closets. Some fans are recreating old Warped outfits, right down to the DIY bandanas and wristband stacks. Others are bringing their kids to 2025 as a kind of full-circle moment.And that’s the magic of Warped—it isn’t just a music festival. It’s a memory machine. A place where generations of misfits, punks, emo kids, and hardcore lifers found themselves and each other.Warped Tour 2025 isn’t just a comeback. It’s a bridge between what was and what’s still possible.
Final Thoughts: Why This Matters
Warped Tour 2025 isn’t just a concert—it’s a cultural reset. In an era where many fans feel disconnected from the alternative music scene or priced out of major festivals; Warped is stepping in to remind us how important these genres were in our lives, and also giving a space for younger audiences to experience it how we did back in the day. It’s messy. It’s sweaty. It’s loud.And it’s exactly what we’ve been missing.Whether you're reliving your teenage glory days or attending for the first time, this year’s Warped Tour is a chance to reconnect—with the music, with your people, and maybe with a part of yourself you forgot.See you in the pit.
FAQs About Warped Tour 2025
Are all ages welcome? Yes! Warped Tour has always been all-ages, and 2025 is no different. However, some VIP areas may have age restrictions.Can I bring a camera or bag?Small bags are allowed. Professional cameras (DSLRs) may require press credentials.Will there be water refill stations?Yes—fans are encouraged to bring empty reusable water bottles.Why isn’t Warped coming to Canada?Organizers cited logistical issues and costs. Canadian fans will need to travel to U.S. stops this year.
[post_title] => Warped Tour 2025: Full Lineup, Dates & Cities Announced
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[post_content] => Gang of Four will return to Los Angeles for their Long Goodbye Tour Stop at The Fonda on May 28th and we have a pair of tickets to giveaway.See below or on Instagram for details.In 2024, Gang of Four embarked on their “The Gang of Four: The Return of the Gang of Four” tour, featuring King, Burnham, and Allen together for the first time since 1981. Now in 2025, the band has announced what they’re calling their Long Goodbye Tour, a final worldwide celebration of their music and legacy. This farewell tour delivers 2 sets of emotionally charged performances. Set 1 is the Gang of Four album Entertainment! in it's entirety, with set 2 delivering the best of the rest with deeper cuts and personal stories reflecting on their 45-year journey.Gang of Four at The Roxy by Lindsay Arth
Janky Smooth is giving away a pair of tickets to one winner to see Gang of Four on their Long Goodbye tour stop at The Fonda Theater. You can buy tickets HERE
Or to Enter:
Follow @JankySmooth on Instagram
Like the original Gang of Four Giveaway Post in our feed.
Tag a Friend
Winner Will be announced Tuesday, May 27th at Noon pacific.
Good Luck!
The Long Goodbye is not just a farewell—it’s a pointed, punk-fueled reminder of Gang of Four’s enduring relevance. Their fusion of art, politics, and noise continues to resonate in a world still wrestling with many of the same contradictions they confronted decades ago.Their groundbreaking 1979 debut, Entertainment!, remains a landmark album, both for its stripped-down aesthetic and its sharp critique of consumerism, war, and social conditioning. The band’s early records, including Solid Gold and Songs of the Free, cemented their reputation as cerebral and confrontational innovators.Gang of Four at The Roxy by Lindsay Arth
[post_title] => Take This: Win a Pair of Tickets To See Gang of Four at The Fonda
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[post_content] => May 15th was one of those rare nights at The Lodge Room where the room felt sacred. Not because we were mourning someone who passed, but because we were saying goodbye to a living legend. After more than a decade of calling L.A. home, King Tuff—aka Kyle Thomas—was leaving the city to head back to his native Vermont. No funeral, no drama, just a farewell show packed with friends, fans, and deep cuts. Still, it carried that weird weight. A little celebratory, a little emotional. The kind of night where people linger a little longer in their hugs and the encore feels more like a thank-you note than a victory lap.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
For those who haven’t followed his journey, King Tuff came up in Brattleboro, Vermont, playing in freak-folk outfits like Feathers before co-founding the stoner metal band Witch with J Mascis. From there, he broke out as a solo act under the King Tuff moniker, releasing Was Dead in 2008—an album that would later go on to cult status when it was reissued by Burger Records and Sub Pop in 2013. The self-titled King Tuff LP in 2012 pushed him further into the spotlight with tracks like “Bad Thing” and “Keep on Movin’,” all saturated in glittery garage rock energy. 2014’s Black Moon Spell solidified his role as the crown prince of weird indie rock, while 2018’s The Other showed us a more introspective side of Kyle, dialing down the glam but doubling up on the soul. Los Angeles was where a lot of that evolution happened. The scene here embraced him as one of their own, and in return, he gave us years of unforgettable music, collaborations, and shows that always felt like house parties that just happened to be sold out.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongKing Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongKing Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
And this farewell gig? It felt like a family reunion disguised as a concert. The night began with a series of short sets from friends and collaborators, each performing a couple of songs in honor of Tuff. The first act out the gate was billed as the Dirty Projectors, though what we actually got was a slowed-down, slightly absurd cover of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The audience chuckled at first, then paused, unsure whether this was a sincere tribute or a joke. It honestly mirrored how I feel about RHCP in general—so much respect for their legacy and individual musicianship, but these days they toe that line between serious and satirical a little too often.
Dirty Projectors at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Next up was Rodrigo Amarante, who delivered a tender love ballad I couldn’t name, but it was enough to silence the room. His voice floated over the crowd like a lullaby, dedicated to Tuff, who watched from backstage. Rodrigo mentioned they used to be neighbors up in Mt. Washington, which—if you’ve been paying attention to L.A. music lore—might as well be Olympus, considering how many legends live up there. It became a recurring theme of the night: “I used to live down the street from Kyle.” Apparently Mt. Washington is where the magic lives.
Rodrigo Amarante at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then came someone I actually recognized right away: Tim Heidecker. Yes, that Tim Heidecker of Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job! fame. He told a wild story about meeting Kyle at something called a “bass circle.” Not a drum circle. A bass circle. He casually mentioned Beck was there too, and they were all sitting on a massive lazy Susan. I half expected him to say they summoned a UFO, but instead, he launched into a set of original comedic songs. He introduced them as lost Simon and Garfunkel B-sides, which was both accurate and hilarious. Somehow, it all worked.
Tim Heidecker at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
After Tim came Shannon Shaw of Shannon & The Clams and Hunx and His Punx. She played two swoon-worthy originals, holding the crowd in her velvet-gloved grip. And yes, she was joined by her famous little pup Spanky Joe, trotting along like a showbiz veteran. It wouldn’t be a Shannon Shaw appearance without him.
Shannon Shaw at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongSpanky Joe at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The last of the pre-Tuff performances came courtesy of Kevin Morby, who you might know from The Babies or his solo work. Kevin and Kyle have been close for years—they even shared an Instagram account at one point called Kevin & Kyle, where they’d document their songwriting sessions. Kevin played a few tracks inspired by their friendship, songs soaked in nostalgia and warmth. As he wrapped up his final number, the other performers returned to the stage for a group sing-along, turning the tribute into a full-on lovefest.
Kevin Morby at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then it was time. After a quick intermission, King Tuff took the stage, solo and acoustic. He greeted the crowd with a smile and some big news: he’d just finished recording a new album under his own imprint. It’ll be the first release on his label, and the record’s called Cozy & Twisted Vol. 1: Grandma’s Favorites. No release date yet, but he’d hand-pressed a limited batch of copies to sell that night. The DIY spirit is alive and well. He played a few selections from the record, including “Night Owl” and “It’s a Turtle’s World,” stripped down to their bare bones. The songs felt personal, almost like lullabies from another dimension.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then came the electricity. Literally.
Kyle strapped on an electric guitar, brought out his band, and launched into “Dancing on You.” That’s when it hit me: I wasn’t leaving. I had a 7 a.m. flight to Kentucky the next morning and had originally planned to dip halfway through. But as soon as those opening chords rang out, that plan evaporated. I was glued to the floor like the rest of the crowd.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The set exploded from there. “Sun Medallion,” “Black Moon Spell,” “Headbanger”—one banger after another. Tuff and his band were locked in, feeding off the audience’s energy, which only got more feverish with each track. By the time they closed with “Anthem,” the room felt like it was on the verge of liftoff. And when they walked off The Lodge Roomstage, the crowd erupted, refusing to let the night end. Chants of “Tuff! Tuff! Tuff!” echoed through the venue until he reappeared, visibly moved.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The encore was everything it needed to be. He came back out and tore into “Bad Thing,” the song that made a lot of people fall in love with him in the first place. He followed it with “I Love You Ugly,” a deep cut that says more in its title than most artists say in entire albums. It was raw, sincere, and a little messy—just like the best goodbyes. The only thing missing was “Alone & Stoned,” but I wasn’t mad about it. The rest of the night had more than delivered.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
There’s a unique kind of magic that happens when someone leaves a place not because they have to, but because it’s time. King Tuff wasn’t chased out of L.A. by burnout or failure. He left on his own terms, surrounded by friends and love and noise. This show wasn’t an ending—it was a handoff to the next chapter. And even though Vermont may be where he goes to make his next batch of songs, a part of Kyle Thomas will always live in Los Angeles. In the garages and practice spaces, in the weird Mt. Washington jam circles, in the late-night diners after a gig when someone says, “Remember that King Tuff show?”
We’ll remember.
Until next time, Tuffy.
Words and Photos: Taylor Wong
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[post_content] => May 15th was one of those rare nights at The Lodge Room where the room felt sacred. Not because we were mourning someone who passed, but because we were saying goodbye to a living legend. After more than a decade of calling L.A. home, King Tuff—aka Kyle Thomas—was leaving the city to head back to his native Vermont. No funeral, no drama, just a farewell show packed with friends, fans, and deep cuts. Still, it carried that weird weight. A little celebratory, a little emotional. The kind of night where people linger a little longer in their hugs and the encore feels more like a thank-you note than a victory lap.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
For those who haven’t followed his journey, King Tuff came up in Brattleboro, Vermont, playing in freak-folk outfits like Feathers before co-founding the stoner metal band Witch with J Mascis. From there, he broke out as a solo act under the King Tuff moniker, releasing Was Dead in 2008—an album that would later go on to cult status when it was reissued by Burger Records and Sub Pop in 2013. The self-titled King Tuff LP in 2012 pushed him further into the spotlight with tracks like “Bad Thing” and “Keep on Movin’,” all saturated in glittery garage rock energy. 2014’s Black Moon Spell solidified his role as the crown prince of weird indie rock, while 2018’s The Other showed us a more introspective side of Kyle, dialing down the glam but doubling up on the soul. Los Angeles was where a lot of that evolution happened. The scene here embraced him as one of their own, and in return, he gave us years of unforgettable music, collaborations, and shows that always felt like house parties that just happened to be sold out.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongKing Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongKing Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
And this farewell gig? It felt like a family reunion disguised as a concert. The night began with a series of short sets from friends and collaborators, each performing a couple of songs in honor of Tuff. The first act out the gate was billed as the Dirty Projectors, though what we actually got was a slowed-down, slightly absurd cover of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The audience chuckled at first, then paused, unsure whether this was a sincere tribute or a joke. It honestly mirrored how I feel about RHCP in general—so much respect for their legacy and individual musicianship, but these days they toe that line between serious and satirical a little too often.
Dirty Projectors at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Next up was Rodrigo Amarante, who delivered a tender love ballad I couldn’t name, but it was enough to silence the room. His voice floated over the crowd like a lullaby, dedicated to Tuff, who watched from backstage. Rodrigo mentioned they used to be neighbors up in Mt. Washington, which—if you’ve been paying attention to L.A. music lore—might as well be Olympus, considering how many legends live up there. It became a recurring theme of the night: “I used to live down the street from Kyle.” Apparently Mt. Washington is where the magic lives.
Rodrigo Amarante at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then came someone I actually recognized right away: Tim Heidecker. Yes, that Tim Heidecker of Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job! fame. He told a wild story about meeting Kyle at something called a “bass circle.” Not a drum circle. A bass circle. He casually mentioned Beck was there too, and they were all sitting on a massive lazy Susan. I half expected him to say they summoned a UFO, but instead, he launched into a set of original comedic songs. He introduced them as lost Simon and Garfunkel B-sides, which was both accurate and hilarious. Somehow, it all worked.
Tim Heidecker at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
After Tim came Shannon Shaw of Shannon & The Clams and Hunx and His Punx. She played two swoon-worthy originals, holding the crowd in her velvet-gloved grip. And yes, she was joined by her famous little pup Spanky Joe, trotting along like a showbiz veteran. It wouldn’t be a Shannon Shaw appearance without him.
Shannon Shaw at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongSpanky Joe at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The last of the pre-Tuff performances came courtesy of Kevin Morby, who you might know from The Babies or his solo work. Kevin and Kyle have been close for years—they even shared an Instagram account at one point called Kevin & Kyle, where they’d document their songwriting sessions. Kevin played a few tracks inspired by their friendship, songs soaked in nostalgia and warmth. As he wrapped up his final number, the other performers returned to the stage for a group sing-along, turning the tribute into a full-on lovefest.
Kevin Morby at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then it was time. After a quick intermission, King Tuff took the stage, solo and acoustic. He greeted the crowd with a smile and some big news: he’d just finished recording a new album under his own imprint. It’ll be the first release on his label, and the record’s called Cozy & Twisted Vol. 1: Grandma’s Favorites. No release date yet, but he’d hand-pressed a limited batch of copies to sell that night. The DIY spirit is alive and well. He played a few selections from the record, including “Night Owl” and “It’s a Turtle’s World,” stripped down to their bare bones. The songs felt personal, almost like lullabies from another dimension.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then came the electricity. Literally.
Kyle strapped on an electric guitar, brought out his band, and launched into “Dancing on You.” That’s when it hit me: I wasn’t leaving. I had a 7 a.m. flight to Kentucky the next morning and had originally planned to dip halfway through. But as soon as those opening chords rang out, that plan evaporated. I was glued to the floor like the rest of the crowd.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The set exploded from there. “Sun Medallion,” “Black Moon Spell,” “Headbanger”—one banger after another. Tuff and his band were locked in, feeding off the audience’s energy, which only got more feverish with each track. By the time they closed with “Anthem,” the room felt like it was on the verge of liftoff. And when they walked off The Lodge Roomstage, the crowd erupted, refusing to let the night end. Chants of “Tuff! Tuff! Tuff!” echoed through the venue until he reappeared, visibly moved.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The encore was everything it needed to be. He came back out and tore into “Bad Thing,” the song that made a lot of people fall in love with him in the first place. He followed it with “I Love You Ugly,” a deep cut that says more in its title than most artists say in entire albums. It was raw, sincere, and a little messy—just like the best goodbyes. The only thing missing was “Alone & Stoned,” but I wasn’t mad about it. The rest of the night had more than delivered.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
There’s a unique kind of magic that happens when someone leaves a place not because they have to, but because it’s time. King Tuff wasn’t chased out of L.A. by burnout or failure. He left on his own terms, surrounded by friends and love and noise. This show wasn’t an ending—it was a handoff to the next chapter. And even though Vermont may be where he goes to make his next batch of songs, a part of Kyle Thomas will always live in Los Angeles. In the garages and practice spaces, in the weird Mt. Washington jam circles, in the late-night diners after a gig when someone says, “Remember that King Tuff show?”
We’ll remember.
Until next time, Tuffy.
Words and Photos: Taylor Wong
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[post_content] =>
Vans Warped Tour is Back! 2025 Lineup, Cities & Dates
For fans who grew up sweating through Vans sneakers in parking lots, clutching crumpled setlists, and discovering their favorite bands by accident—this is the moment you’ve been waiting for. After six long years of silence, Vans Warped Tour is officially returning in 2025. And it’s not just back. It’s bigger, bolder, and ready to ignite a new generation of fans.Once the lifeblood of youthful punk rock summers, Warped Tour was more than just a traveling concert—it was a cultural pilgrimage. Whether you were crowd-surfing to A Day To Remember or picking up zines at the PETA tent, every stop felt like a shared rite of passage. Since its final tour in 2019, fans have kept the flame alive through throwback playlists, tattered wristbands, and countless Reddit threads asking the same question: “Will Warped ever come back?”Now, it has—and the announcement didn’t just ripple through the music scene. It detonated. Reddit and X exploded. Music blogs lit up. Longtime fans and scene veterans reunited across timelines, screaming in all caps: “WARPED IS BACK.”But this isn’t just a victory lap or a reunion tour. Warped Tour 2025 is a full-fledged rebirth—one that honors its rebellious roots while embracing everything that hypes up the new generation of fans.Here’s your full breakdown of what to expect: the 2025 lineup, tour dates, city stops, ticket info, and all the new twists that are turning this comeback into a must-attend event.
A Look Back: The Legacy of Vans Warped Tour
Before we get into the future, let’s rewind to how we got here.Warped Tour was born in 1995, created by music industry vet Kevin Lyman as a way to connect the world of punk rock with extreme sports culture. Vans came onboard that same year, and a movement was born. With its rotating stages, cheap tickets, and barebones setup, Warped quickly earned a reputation as the punk rock summer camp—a place where bands and fans mingled without barriers and every performance felt like it could be your last.Warped Tour became a launchpad for now-iconic artists—Blink-182, Paramore, Fall Out Boy, My Chemical Romance, and even pop names like Katy Perry and 3OH!3. But its legacy wasn’t just in the music, as it was also one of the first mainstream tours to intertwine activism into the live music experience. Rows of tents gave voice to nonprofits like To Write Love On Her Arms, Invisible Children, and PETA, making sure that fans left with something that meant more than just merch.It wasn’t always pretty. Warped was sweaty, loud, chaotic, and often the subject of artist controversies—but its hands-off unregulated nature was part of what made Warped Tour so unique. It was real. And when the tour wrapped for what was supposed to be the last time in 2019, fans around the world mourned the end of an era.But eras have a funny way of circling back. And in 2025, Warped isn’t just a throwback—it’s a cultural reset.
What’s New for Vans Warped Tour 2025?
If you’re expecting Warped 2025 to be the same old dusty stages and sunstroke-inducing chaos, think again. This revival is a fully reimagined experience designed to meet fans where they are—without losing the gritty charm that made Warped iconic in the first place. Rather than the traveling circus that it once was, it’s going to feel more like an established high-quality festival catered to our current adult needs.Here’s what’s different:
Fewer Stops, Bigger Stages
Gone are the days of 40+ back-to-back dates on blacktop parking lots. Warped Tour 2025 is targeting a few major cities with carefully curated, festival-style setups. Think: multiple stages, more space, better production, and longer set times. You won’t be chasing overlapping bands nearly as much—you’ll be immersed in full-day (and in some cases, weekend-long) experiences.
Multi-Day Events
At key stops like Long Beach, CA, Warped is expanding into multi-day events, making room for rotating lineups, exclusive merch drops, local food vendors, and skate/BMX exhibitions. It's more immersive, more flexible, and built for weekend warriors.
A Fresh Genre Mix
The core still pulses with punk, ska, emo, and hardcore, but 2025 reflects today’s eclectic tastes. Metalcore, post-hardcore, pop-punk revival, and even alt-hip-hop artists are joining the bill. This year’s lineup reads like a mashup of your middle school iPod and your FYP on TikTok—and it works.
Gen Z-Focused Fan Experience
From interactive installations and social media activations to mental health zones and safe spaces, Warped 2025 is built with the next generation in mind. There will still be mosh pits and Vans slip-ons, but they’ll coexist with wellness booths, LGBTQ+ affirming spaces, and creator-friendly media hubs. It's still gritty—but now it’s got a bit more guidance for newcomers.
New Faces Behind the Curtain
While the Vans branding remains, 2025 sees a new mix of partners, producers, and visionaries stepping in to help scale the tour for a modern era. That means improved logistics, better artist support, and a more polished fan experience—without sanding off the rough edges that made Warped authentic in the first place.
Organizers are also teasing surprise guests and secret sets—just like the old days.“We wanted to bring back that magic where you stumble upon a band you didn’t know you loved,” said one Vans Warped Tour spokesperson on Reddit.
2025 Vans Warped Tour Dates & Cities
After a six-year hiatus, the Warped Tour will make stops in three U.S. cities for its 30th anniversary:
Washington, D.C. – Festival Grounds at RFK Campus – June 14–15, 2025
Long Beach, California – Shoreline Waterfront – July 26–27, 2025
Orlando, Florida – Camping World Stadium – November 15–16, 2025
Lineups for Each Vans Warped Tour Stop
2025 Warped Tour Washington, D.C. Lineup Highlights
In addition to the musical acts, attendees can look forward to various experiences; including Artist Alley, Sponsor Village, Extreme Sports showcases, Record Label Row, Charity Circle, the Warped Tour Museum, and Culture Curators.For the complete Washington, D.C., lineup and more details, visit theofficial Vans Warped Tour DC website.
Avril Lavigne – The princess of mall punk herself is going to have everybody in attendance flipping out and singing along to "Sk8er Boi" and “Girlfriend” in what is sure to be a historic turnout of fans for the festival.
All Time Low – Baltimore natives bringing their energetic pop-punk sound and cheesy emo lyrics to the festival, being a mainstay of Warped Tour history throughout their career. Your girlfriend definitely had a shirt of theirs that she bought at Hot Topic back in the day, and this is going to be one of the most nostalgic sets for many people there.
August Burns Red – Grammy-nominated metalcore band known for technical prowess, being one of the most memorable and talked about bands from the metalcore takeover of Warped Tour that happened in the 00’s.
Blessthefall – Post-hardcore veterans of Warped, delivering high-octane performances and known for their heavy, emotional sound. They’re a classic within the scene, and should not be missed by any post-hardcore enthusiast.
Dance Hall Crashers – Late 80’s ska-punk band that started out as a spin-off of Operation Ivy; being in the circle pit for their upbeat rhythms is what Warped Tour (and summer as a whole) is all about.
FEVER 333 – Activist rapcore trio delivering politically charged performances. If you’re a fan of nu-metal or industrial metal, they’re one of the most notable acts carrying the torch today.
Fishbone – Funky ska-punk veterans that blow everyone else out of the water in any lineup they appear on. If you’ve never seen Fishbone before, be prepared to groove down and get funky like you never have before.
Four Year Strong – Melodic hardcore band with a blend of pop-punk and heavy riffs. Even the hardcore purists love these guys, and they could not fit into a better lineup than this one.
Hawthorne Heights – Emo band known for their heartfelt lyrics and dynamic sound, Hawthorne Heights were one of the staple bands of Warped Tour emo throughout the 00’s. The lineup would not be complete without them.
Ice Nine Kills – Horror-inspired metalcore band, Ice Nine Kills is going to bring the nighttime theatrics of a massive metal show to the daytime summer heat. It’s sure to be an interesting mix for everyone.
Less Than Jake – One of the best bands to see if you’re looking for some cheesy 90’s ska-punk nostalgia, but Less Than Jake does genuinely tear down the house on every lineup they play even if you’re a skeptic of the genre. We are excited to break out the checkered Vans to skank for this one.
Miss May I – Metalcore band known for their aggressive sound and melodic elements, Miss May I is a staple band within the Warped Tour catalog, and are definitely going to bring some hardcore dancers to the pit.
Pennywise – The pinnacle of 90’s skate punk that almost doesn’t need an introduction. Pennywise is sure to bring the energy of Warped Tour’s beginnings in the 90’s to modern audiences, and old-heads are going to be running the mosh pit for this one.
State Champs – Modern pop-punk band bringing catchy hooks and energetic sets. They were a bit late to joining the consistent Warped Tour lineup of bands, but they’re an essential band of the festival’s history nonetheless.
Sublime – Kings of 90’s reggae and ska-punk fronted by the late Brad Nowell’s son Jakob, who does an incredible job fronting the current lineup and keeping Sublime’s spirit alive in a way that nobody else would be able to.
The Wonder Years – One of the most important bands of the 2010’s emo boom, with introspective lyrics and powerful performances.This is gonna be an emotional one, but be prepared to mosh as well.
311 – 90’s alternative rock band known for their fusion of rock, reggae, and funk. Be prepared to see dreadlocks and clouds of smoke for as far as the eye can see.
3OH!3 – Electronic music duo that pretty much ran the Warped Tour lineup in the later 00’s, with “Don’t Trust Me” still being a sing-along anthem at any club worth going to.
A Day To Remember – One of the biggest bands of Warped Tour’s scene era, blending pop-punk with metalcore elements. The intro to “Downfall Of Us All” is sure to create the loudest gang vocals from the crowd of the whole weekend.
Asking Alexandria – British metalcore band with a dynamic stage presence. Although metalcore wasn’t a genre I gravitated towards, they blew me away when I saw them at Warped Tour back in 2012 and I will definitely be catching them again.
Atmosphere – Influential hip-hop duo blending introspective lyrics with experimental beats, Atmosphere has always had a cult following that will bring the most dedicated fans rapping along to every song.
Black Veil Brides – Glam metal band known for their theatrical style and over-the-top outfits, Black Veil Bands are a band you either love or hate. Regardless, they’re about to put on a flashy show that is sure to knock the socks off of their dedicated fanbase.
Bowling For Soup – Millennial-core pop-punk band known for their humorous and catchy tunes like “1985” and “High School Never Ends”. Are they going to play the Phineas And Ferb theme song? We wouldn’t miss that for the world, so we’ll be there to find out.
Bryce Vine – Former Glee audition finalist; this upcoming Hip-hop artist is known for hits like "Drew Barrymore" and "La La Land", even landing a collaboration with YG.
Chiodos – One of the biggest names in Post-hardcore circles that you could not escape during the height of Warped Tour. You will be sure to see fans bawling their eyes out and singing along to every word.
CKY – Alternative metal band with some of the grooviest riffs ever, that you definitely have heard through their association with the Jackass crew.
Cobra Starship – Dance-pop band that almost defined what the “scene” style was all about, famous for their catchy hooks and party anthems. You’re gonna want to be sure to break out your brightly colored skinny jeans and goofy oversized glasses for this one.
Dropkick Murphys – Celtic punk band blending traditional Irish music with hardcore punk, who are sure to have the most aggressive pit of the weekend when the bagpipes to “I’m Shipping Up To Boston” come in.
Falling In Reverse – Post-hardcore band fronted by the infamous Ronnie Radke with a blend of metalcore and pop elements. “Why do good girls like bad guys?” Radke’s about to show us, either by giving the performance of the ultimate anti-hero or a complete crashout. We could not be more excited to see for ourselves.
Ice-T AND Body Count – Absolutely legendary thrash metal band fronted by rapper Ice-T. It’s almost unbelievable that they’re playing Warped Tour, being much more dark and aggressive than most of the lineup. You don’t want to be caught slipping in the mosh pit when they play “Cop Killer”.
Landon Barker – Son of Travis Barker, Landon is an emerging rapper with pop-punk influences. If you’re a fan of MGK or Lil Peep, this is a set you’re going to want to see.
Rise Against – Punk rock band known for their melodic hardcore sound and politically charged lyrics. While they do have a bit of a bro following and can be definitely classified as KROQ-core, they absolutely kill it live and frontman Tim McIlrath has one of the most powerful voices in the genre.
Simple Plan – Early 00’s Canadian pop-punk band with hits like “I’m Just A Kid” and "Welcome to My Life". Come on, we at Janky Smooth know that they put out at least one song you love. Let your inner middle-schooler out and sing your heart out during their set.
The All-American Rejects – Undeniable early 00’s pop-punk legends that infected every radio station with “Dirty Little Secret” and "Gives You Hell”. Even for the casual fans, this is going to feel like the most epic night of karaoke with all of the hits they have.
The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus – Emo band famous for their hit "Face Down” that you could not escape in 2006. They were one of the most talked about bands during the Myspace era, and are sure to be one of the most anticipated sets of the weekend.
Yung Gravy – Goofy meme rapper known for his humorous lyrics and retro-inspired beats, Yung Gravy represents the carefree summer vibes that Warped Tour has always been about creating.
Attila – Known for their aggressive metalcore sound and nu-metal elements, Attila is going to get the spin-kicks going in the mosh pit and they are a huge throwback for early fans of the metalcore movement.
Beauty School Dropout – Emerging pop-punk band with catchy hooks and a rowdy spirit, Beauty School Dropout has already caught the attention of Pete Wentz of Fall Out Boy and Mark Hoppus of Blink-182. For older alternative music fans that have been out of the loop for a while, this should be on your radar.
Boundaries – Connecticut 2010’s hardcore band that is about to bring us an intense performance, embodying more influence from Hatebreed and the roots of hardcore than other bands of the metalcore boom.
Lacey Sturm – Former Flyleaf vocalist with a powerful solo presence, Lacey’s haunting vocals are going to bring chills down your spine in a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
MGK – Love-him-or-hate-him rapper turned pop-punk artist is sure to draw one of the largest crowds of the day. If you’re a skeptic of his ability to craft pop-punk, I highly recommend checking out his album “Mainstream Sellout” with Travis Barker. It’s an instant classic for the genre, even if you can’t stand the dude.
Slaughter to Prevail – Russian deathcore band known for their brutal sound and stage costumes. The online opinion is heavily split on these guys, but all of the buzz surrounding them is sure to make for a memorable set.
Plain White T’s – Pop-rock band famous for "Hey There Delilah", Plain White T’s are a blend of emo and indie influences that could have only existed at the time they came out. Be prepared for it to feel like 2006 again when they take the stage.
Yellowcard – Pop-punk band known for their incorporation of violins and their massive 2003 release “Ocean Avenue”. It’s a huge bummer that they aren’t playing the Long Beach date, as they embody the nostalgic energy you want to experience at a day of Warped Tour in 2025.
How to Get Tickets (and What You Need to Know)
Tickets are currently sold out via the official Vans Warped Tour website and participating partners, but there is a waitlist that you can currently join for tickets that will become available. Pro tip: Follow@VansWarpedTour on X for real-time updates.
What to Expect at the Shows: Beyond the Music
Warped Tour 2025 is designed to be more than a concert—it’s a full-day experience.
Expect:
Multiple Stages with overlapping sets—just like old times.
Local food trucks and vegan/vegetarian vendors.
Merch booths with exclusive 2025 tour drops.
Interactive zones (tattoo pop-ups, fan art galleries, influencer meetups).
Nonprofit activations around mental health, LGBTQ+ youth, and climate action.
Security and medical teams will be on-site. There will also be shaded chill zones, hydration stations, and upgraded ADA accommodations.
Nostalgia Corner: Remembering Warped Tours Past
No Warped Tour coverage would be complete without a nod to the past. Whether you caught Paramore on a dusty side stage in 2005 before their Riot! days or got your first sunburn screaming along to All Time Low’s “Dear Maria” in 2012, Warped was more than just a show—it was a summer ritual.It was where scene kids met their future best friends (and sometimes exes), where aspiring musicians handed out burned CDs by the merch tent, and where the parking lot turned into a battleground of sweat, eyeliner, and Vans checkerboard slip-ons. For many, it was their first concert, first mosh pit, first sense of belonging.Here are just a few fan-favorite memories that live on in Warped legend:
2004 – My Chemical Romance’s breakout setBefore Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge took over Hot Topic shelves, MCR was tearing through early afternoon slots at Warped. In 100+ degree heat, they played to a modest but rabid crowd—and by the end of the summer, they were on their way to becoming one of the biggest bands in the world.
2006 – Underoath walks off stage mid-setMidway through their set in Atlanta, the band abruptly left due to technical issues and inter-band tension. It shocked fans, sparked message board drama, and added to the mythology of Warped being unpredictable in the best—and sometimes worst—ways.
2010 – Attack Attack!’s crabcore goes viralTheir synchronized squat-jumps became a meme before memes were mainstream. Whether you loved or hated it, you remember it.
2011 – The Wonder Years surprise set in a parking lotWhat started as an impromptu acoustic performance turned into a full-fledged mob of fans crowding around a van, singing every word. That DIY spontaneity was the soul of what Warped Tour represented.
2015 – Black Veil Brides fans and Pierce the Veil fans nearly split the crowdWith lineups getting heavier and more theatrical, 2015 was peak “scene wars” energy—eyeliner, patches, and battle jackets everywhere as fans picked their side of the beef.
2018 – The Final Cross-Country TourDubbed “The End of an Era,” Warped 2018 was a farewell soaked in tears, sweat, and nostalgia. Fans showed up in droves—some for the last time, others for the first—to say goodbye to the traveling punk circus that raised them.
Reddit is buzzing with reunion plans, throwback photos, and tour T-shirts dug out from closets. Some fans are recreating old Warped outfits, right down to the DIY bandanas and wristband stacks. Others are bringing their kids to 2025 as a kind of full-circle moment.And that’s the magic of Warped—it isn’t just a music festival. It’s a memory machine. A place where generations of misfits, punks, emo kids, and hardcore lifers found themselves and each other.Warped Tour 2025 isn’t just a comeback. It’s a bridge between what was and what’s still possible.
Final Thoughts: Why This Matters
Warped Tour 2025 isn’t just a concert—it’s a cultural reset. In an era where many fans feel disconnected from the alternative music scene or priced out of major festivals; Warped is stepping in to remind us how important these genres were in our lives, and also giving a space for younger audiences to experience it how we did back in the day. It’s messy. It’s sweaty. It’s loud.And it’s exactly what we’ve been missing.Whether you're reliving your teenage glory days or attending for the first time, this year’s Warped Tour is a chance to reconnect—with the music, with your people, and maybe with a part of yourself you forgot.See you in the pit.
FAQs About Warped Tour 2025
Are all ages welcome? Yes! Warped Tour has always been all-ages, and 2025 is no different. However, some VIP areas may have age restrictions.Can I bring a camera or bag?Small bags are allowed. Professional cameras (DSLRs) may require press credentials.Will there be water refill stations?Yes—fans are encouraged to bring empty reusable water bottles.Why isn’t Warped coming to Canada?Organizers cited logistical issues and costs. Canadian fans will need to travel to U.S. stops this year.
[post_title] => Warped Tour 2025: Full Lineup, Dates & Cities Announced
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[post_content] => Gang of Four will return to Los Angeles for their Long Goodbye Tour Stop at The Fonda on May 28th and we have a pair of tickets to giveaway.See below or on Instagram for details.In 2024, Gang of Four embarked on their “The Gang of Four: The Return of the Gang of Four” tour, featuring King, Burnham, and Allen together for the first time since 1981. Now in 2025, the band has announced what they’re calling their Long Goodbye Tour, a final worldwide celebration of their music and legacy. This farewell tour delivers 2 sets of emotionally charged performances. Set 1 is the Gang of Four album Entertainment! in it's entirety, with set 2 delivering the best of the rest with deeper cuts and personal stories reflecting on their 45-year journey.Gang of Four at The Roxy by Lindsay Arth
Janky Smooth is giving away a pair of tickets to one winner to see Gang of Four on their Long Goodbye tour stop at The Fonda Theater. You can buy tickets HERE
Or to Enter:
Follow @JankySmooth on Instagram
Like the original Gang of Four Giveaway Post in our feed.
Tag a Friend
Winner Will be announced Tuesday, May 27th at Noon pacific.
Good Luck!
The Long Goodbye is not just a farewell—it’s a pointed, punk-fueled reminder of Gang of Four’s enduring relevance. Their fusion of art, politics, and noise continues to resonate in a world still wrestling with many of the same contradictions they confronted decades ago.Their groundbreaking 1979 debut, Entertainment!, remains a landmark album, both for its stripped-down aesthetic and its sharp critique of consumerism, war, and social conditioning. The band’s early records, including Solid Gold and Songs of the Free, cemented their reputation as cerebral and confrontational innovators.Gang of Four at The Roxy by Lindsay Arth
[post_title] => Take This: Win a Pair of Tickets To See Gang of Four at The Fonda
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[post_content] => May 15th was one of those rare nights at The Lodge Room where the room felt sacred. Not because we were mourning someone who passed, but because we were saying goodbye to a living legend. After more than a decade of calling L.A. home, King Tuff—aka Kyle Thomas—was leaving the city to head back to his native Vermont. No funeral, no drama, just a farewell show packed with friends, fans, and deep cuts. Still, it carried that weird weight. A little celebratory, a little emotional. The kind of night where people linger a little longer in their hugs and the encore feels more like a thank-you note than a victory lap.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
For those who haven’t followed his journey, King Tuff came up in Brattleboro, Vermont, playing in freak-folk outfits like Feathers before co-founding the stoner metal band Witch with J Mascis. From there, he broke out as a solo act under the King Tuff moniker, releasing Was Dead in 2008—an album that would later go on to cult status when it was reissued by Burger Records and Sub Pop in 2013. The self-titled King Tuff LP in 2012 pushed him further into the spotlight with tracks like “Bad Thing” and “Keep on Movin’,” all saturated in glittery garage rock energy. 2014’s Black Moon Spell solidified his role as the crown prince of weird indie rock, while 2018’s The Other showed us a more introspective side of Kyle, dialing down the glam but doubling up on the soul. Los Angeles was where a lot of that evolution happened. The scene here embraced him as one of their own, and in return, he gave us years of unforgettable music, collaborations, and shows that always felt like house parties that just happened to be sold out.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongKing Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongKing Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
And this farewell gig? It felt like a family reunion disguised as a concert. The night began with a series of short sets from friends and collaborators, each performing a couple of songs in honor of Tuff. The first act out the gate was billed as the Dirty Projectors, though what we actually got was a slowed-down, slightly absurd cover of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The audience chuckled at first, then paused, unsure whether this was a sincere tribute or a joke. It honestly mirrored how I feel about RHCP in general—so much respect for their legacy and individual musicianship, but these days they toe that line between serious and satirical a little too often.
Dirty Projectors at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Next up was Rodrigo Amarante, who delivered a tender love ballad I couldn’t name, but it was enough to silence the room. His voice floated over the crowd like a lullaby, dedicated to Tuff, who watched from backstage. Rodrigo mentioned they used to be neighbors up in Mt. Washington, which—if you’ve been paying attention to L.A. music lore—might as well be Olympus, considering how many legends live up there. It became a recurring theme of the night: “I used to live down the street from Kyle.” Apparently Mt. Washington is where the magic lives.
Rodrigo Amarante at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then came someone I actually recognized right away: Tim Heidecker. Yes, that Tim Heidecker of Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job! fame. He told a wild story about meeting Kyle at something called a “bass circle.” Not a drum circle. A bass circle. He casually mentioned Beck was there too, and they were all sitting on a massive lazy Susan. I half expected him to say they summoned a UFO, but instead, he launched into a set of original comedic songs. He introduced them as lost Simon and Garfunkel B-sides, which was both accurate and hilarious. Somehow, it all worked.
Tim Heidecker at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
After Tim came Shannon Shaw of Shannon & The Clams and Hunx and His Punx. She played two swoon-worthy originals, holding the crowd in her velvet-gloved grip. And yes, she was joined by her famous little pup Spanky Joe, trotting along like a showbiz veteran. It wouldn’t be a Shannon Shaw appearance without him.
Shannon Shaw at The Lodge Room by Taylor WongSpanky Joe at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The last of the pre-Tuff performances came courtesy of Kevin Morby, who you might know from The Babies or his solo work. Kevin and Kyle have been close for years—they even shared an Instagram account at one point called Kevin & Kyle, where they’d document their songwriting sessions. Kevin played a few tracks inspired by their friendship, songs soaked in nostalgia and warmth. As he wrapped up his final number, the other performers returned to the stage for a group sing-along, turning the tribute into a full-on lovefest.
Kevin Morby at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then it was time. After a quick intermission, King Tuff took the stage, solo and acoustic. He greeted the crowd with a smile and some big news: he’d just finished recording a new album under his own imprint. It’ll be the first release on his label, and the record’s called Cozy & Twisted Vol. 1: Grandma’s Favorites. No release date yet, but he’d hand-pressed a limited batch of copies to sell that night. The DIY spirit is alive and well. He played a few selections from the record, including “Night Owl” and “It’s a Turtle’s World,” stripped down to their bare bones. The songs felt personal, almost like lullabies from another dimension.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
Then came the electricity. Literally.
Kyle strapped on an electric guitar, brought out his band, and launched into “Dancing on You.” That’s when it hit me: I wasn’t leaving. I had a 7 a.m. flight to Kentucky the next morning and had originally planned to dip halfway through. But as soon as those opening chords rang out, that plan evaporated. I was glued to the floor like the rest of the crowd.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The set exploded from there. “Sun Medallion,” “Black Moon Spell,” “Headbanger”—one banger after another. Tuff and his band were locked in, feeding off the audience’s energy, which only got more feverish with each track. By the time they closed with “Anthem,” the room felt like it was on the verge of liftoff. And when they walked off The Lodge Roomstage, the crowd erupted, refusing to let the night end. Chants of “Tuff! Tuff! Tuff!” echoed through the venue until he reappeared, visibly moved.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
The encore was everything it needed to be. He came back out and tore into “Bad Thing,” the song that made a lot of people fall in love with him in the first place. He followed it with “I Love You Ugly,” a deep cut that says more in its title than most artists say in entire albums. It was raw, sincere, and a little messy—just like the best goodbyes. The only thing missing was “Alone & Stoned,” but I wasn’t mad about it. The rest of the night had more than delivered.
King Tuff Farewell at The Lodge Room by Taylor Wong
There’s a unique kind of magic that happens when someone leaves a place not because they have to, but because it’s time. King Tuff wasn’t chased out of L.A. by burnout or failure. He left on his own terms, surrounded by friends and love and noise. This show wasn’t an ending—it was a handoff to the next chapter. And even though Vermont may be where he goes to make his next batch of songs, a part of Kyle Thomas will always live in Los Angeles. In the garages and practice spaces, in the weird Mt. Washington jam circles, in the late-night diners after a gig when someone says, “Remember that King Tuff show?”
We’ll remember.
Until next time, Tuffy.
Words and Photos: Taylor Wong
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In the 1980's, Chicago was the epicenter of North America's Industrial music explosion with Wax Trax records birthing some of the genre's most iconic bands, namely Ministry. Chicago's importance in the history of Industrial music cannot be overstated. That's why when Cold Waves, the country's premiere Industrial festival, announced it was bringing it's cavalcade of musicians to Los Angeles, it was a big deal for the genre and our city. I still regret missing the first Cold Waves LA last year and so, made sure to attend this year's.
1720 might seem like a hidden gem because of the surrounding debris and chaos of the area it resides in but after spending my weekend there, I can say it's one of the better venues in Los Angeles. This is the case for a few reasons, the sound quality and stage being at the top of that list but also its comfortable, well air conditioned atmosphere and it's smoking area, where bands and audience become one.
Day 1
The festival began with a DJ set by legendary artist Rhys Fulber of Front Line Assembly. His set was moody and brooding, the sounds of circuity unnerving due to stress, digital decay. It wasn't the most danceable thing but it sent certain waves, frequencies, and signals to the mind that would give you a delicious off-putting feeling. This is one of the trademarks of Industrial music and its fans, a desire to hear and ability to enjoy grotesque sounds.
Rhys Fulber
Los Angeles' own, Omniflux was next and this set really flexed the incredible visuals that would pair with each band. Having created her own visuals, Omniflux's trippy EBM was elevated by the sight of art from every era collaged into one beautiful synthesis of everything avant-garde. Whether she was on her synths or guitar, 1720 was gripped by the vibration Omniflux ruminated.
Omniflux
Of all the bands that would perform this weekend, Cocksure was the most unique. With an infectious and odd rhythm to their sound, sort of like a industrial inspired Talking Heads, a lot of people didn't understand Cocksure, making me only appreciate them more. This was the farthest any band would deviate from the central expected electronic industrial music sound of the weekend. It was artsy, macho, strange, and fun all at once. Cocksure consists of industrial icons Chris Connelly and Jason Novak (creator of Cold Waves) who achieve the ends of industrial, commenting on the future and present chaos, by different means, some kind of cock rock.
CocksureCocksure
Perhaps the artist I was anticipating most, behind only OhGr, Author and Punisher, is a one man insane asylum creating face melting music from machines Tristan Shone manufactured himself. With punishing sounds that rip your mind into the abstract, anyone that wasn't mentally or psychologically damaged before this show became so. For those who've already had their brains a bit scrambled, this was the most pleasing symphony of monstrous noise. The lights strobed in horrifying rhythm and the sound twisted violently.
I was stoked to see Paul Barker's solo-project Lead Into Gold. For those that don't know, Paul was instrumental in creating Ministry's harsh, early industrial sound on records like the Land of Rape and Honey. As an alumnist of the Revolting Cocks, his brand of industrial makes you dance to this heavy, chaotic, jagged thing. Lead Into Gold's set featured such music but couldn't quite ignite the audience into dancing. Being joined by Omniflux on stage brought another level to the performance but I still felt something was missing in connecting this audience with the music.
Lead Into Gold
The man I had come to see, Nivek Ogre, frontman of Skinny Puppy, my hero, was headlining day 1 with his band OhGr after having released their latest album Tricks. Donning a deformed rabbit mask as he pranced around on stage wildly, Ogre's mastery of body-theatrics served him well in communicating a message all about how psychological tricks are played in politics to manipulate you. One moment that especially struck me was when Ogre quickly crab-walked from one end of the stage to the other in one speedy almost reptilian movement you couldn't imagine most people ever doing. Ogre has clearly meticulously trained every muscle and unit of his body to perform such artistic moves. He played plenty of songs off the new album and breathed life into them by pulling stuffed rabbits out of hats and playing with a magic wand. At one point he put on a Trump mask and started doing card tricks, really driving home the understanding that these are conmen in office. The sound and synergy of the full band was intense and electrifying, peaking on songs like "Cracker".
OhGrOhGrOhGr
Day 2
Day 2 began with Anatomy flying the flag for women in industrial with a harrowing set of heavy industrial beats with black metal screeching soaring over top. Scaring the audience just as much as thrilling them, Anatomy plays a sort of music that you can tell comes from a deep and troubled place in the void.
AnatomyContinues was next, surrounded by lights that animated his performance into a musical adventure of sorts. This solo act from Los Angeles makes music so sonic that it conjures up all the visuals anyone needs to play along with the sound, no screens necessary, it's industrial for the imagination.
Continues
Many of the true industrial heads were overwhelmed with excitement for Seattle's Assemblage 23. The band had an incredibly kinetic feel, veering on drum and bass, to make all the goths dance and surge with industrial ecstasy.
Assemblage 23
The duo of Heather Gabel and Seth Sher create one of the most harrowing shows you can ever be lucky enough to see. This duo, calling themselves Hide, do just that in the shadows, only illuminated by the strobes that catch half their movements. Seth Sher makes the noise that provides the canvas and Heather Gabel paints with her body and soul to put on a show too raw to critique. It comes from a deep, dark sex-death part of Heather's soul. I'd imagine most people assume art like this has to come from surviving something horrific, like silent screaming finally given a release. In making art like this, it becomes an incredibly moving experience for people in the audience that recognize the screams.
HideHide
The sleeper hit of the festival for me was C-Tec. This is one of those bands you have to really be into the industrial scene to know, and myself, as just a fan of the icons of the genre, was only being introduced to them now. They were absolutely riveting, the first band of the weekend that really got the audience dancing in some kind of euphoric, mindless state. With members from Front 242 and Cubanate, C-Tec takes EBM to its most thrilling heights.
C-Tec
The Black Queen headlining Cold Waves LA, in their hometown, on the same night as their record release for Infinite Games was a landmark performance for singer Greg Puciato. Why? Because this was the moment that the Dillinger Escape Plan chapter of his life as a musician was finally closed. Even though the band had dissolved last year, this performance cemented The Black Queen as his main band and not his "side-project".
Infinite Games is an amazing album with plenty of goth bangers and atmospheric haze to wrap your head around. With light tubes pulsing on stage as all three members of The Black Queen played, the set was an overwhelming experience of sound and vision that we were guided through by the incredibly gripping melody of Greg's voice and the hooks of his lyrics.
Opening with the first single off the new record, "Thrown Into The Dark", the band hit the ground running and the audience exploded with cyberpunk glee. After hitting songs like "Ice To Never", "Secret Scream", and "The End Where We Start", the set ended with "Apocalypse Morning" and just like the smoke and dust rising up from the ground after a bombraid, the set ended in murky electronic noise and haze.
The Black QueenDay 3
Day 3 of Cold Waves LA included sets by HAEX, Actors, H3llb3nt, Chemlab, Night Club, and the legendary Frontline Assembly.
HaexHaexActorsActorsH3llb3ntChemlabChemlabNight ClubNight ClubFrontline AssemblyFrontline Assembly
Words by: Rob Shepyer
Photos by: Abraham Preciado
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In the 1980's, Chicago was the epicenter of North America's Industrial music explosion with Wax Trax records birthing some of the genre's most iconic bands, namely Ministry. Chicago's importance in the history of Industrial music cannot be overstated. That's why when Cold Waves, the country's premiere Industrial festival, announced it was bringing it's cavalcade of musicians to Los Angeles, it was a big deal for the genre and our city. I still regret missing the first Cold Waves LA last year and so, made sure to attend this year's.
1720 might seem like a hidden gem because of the surrounding debris and chaos of the area it resides in but after spending my weekend there, I can say it's one of the better venues in Los Angeles. This is the case for a few reasons, the sound quality and stage being at the top of that list but also its comfortable, well air conditioned atmosphere and it's smoking area, where bands and audience become one.
Day 1
The festival began with a DJ set by legendary artist Rhys Fulber of Front Line Assembly. His set was moody and brooding, the sounds of circuity unnerving due to stress, digital decay. It wasn't the most danceable thing but it sent certain waves, frequencies, and signals to the mind that would give you a delicious off-putting feeling. This is one of the trademarks of Industrial music and its fans, a desire to hear and ability to enjoy grotesque sounds.
Rhys Fulber
Los Angeles' own, Omniflux was next and this set really flexed the incredible visuals that would pair with each band. Having created her own visuals, Omniflux's trippy EBM was elevated by the sight of art from every era collaged into one beautiful synthesis of everything avant-garde. Whether she was on her synths or guitar, 1720 was gripped by the vibration Omniflux ruminated.
Omniflux
Of all the bands that would perform this weekend, Cocksure was the most unique. With an infectious and odd rhythm to their sound, sort of like a industrial inspired Talking Heads, a lot of people didn't understand Cocksure, making me only appreciate them more. This was the farthest any band would deviate from the central expected electronic industrial music sound of the weekend. It was artsy, macho, strange, and fun all at once. Cocksure consists of industrial icons Chris Connelly and Jason Novak (creator of Cold Waves) who achieve the ends of industrial, commenting on the future and present chaos, by different means, some kind of cock rock.
CocksureCocksure
Perhaps the artist I was anticipating most, behind only OhGr, Author and Punisher, is a one man insane asylum creating face melting music from machines Tristan Shone manufactured himself. With punishing sounds that rip your mind into the abstract, anyone that wasn't mentally or psychologically damaged before this show became so. For those who've already had their brains a bit scrambled, this was the most pleasing symphony of monstrous noise. The lights strobed in horrifying rhythm and the sound twisted violently.
I was stoked to see Paul Barker's solo-project Lead Into Gold. For those that don't know, Paul was instrumental in creating Ministry's harsh, early industrial sound on records like the Land of Rape and Honey. As an alumnist of the Revolting Cocks, his brand of industrial makes you dance to this heavy, chaotic, jagged thing. Lead Into Gold's set featured such music but couldn't quite ignite the audience into dancing. Being joined by Omniflux on stage brought another level to the performance but I still felt something was missing in connecting this audience with the music.
Lead Into Gold
The man I had come to see, Nivek Ogre, frontman of Skinny Puppy, my hero, was headlining day 1 with his band OhGr after having released their latest album Tricks. Donning a deformed rabbit mask as he pranced around on stage wildly, Ogre's mastery of body-theatrics served him well in communicating a message all about how psychological tricks are played in politics to manipulate you. One moment that especially struck me was when Ogre quickly crab-walked from one end of the stage to the other in one speedy almost reptilian movement you couldn't imagine most people ever doing. Ogre has clearly meticulously trained every muscle and unit of his body to perform such artistic moves. He played plenty of songs off the new album and breathed life into them by pulling stuffed rabbits out of hats and playing with a magic wand. At one point he put on a Trump mask and started doing card tricks, really driving home the understanding that these are conmen in office. The sound and synergy of the full band was intense and electrifying, peaking on songs like "Cracker".
OhGrOhGrOhGr
Day 2
Day 2 began with Anatomy flying the flag for women in industrial with a harrowing set of heavy industrial beats with black metal screeching soaring over top. Scaring the audience just as much as thrilling them, Anatomy plays a sort of music that you can tell comes from a deep and troubled place in the void.
AnatomyContinues was next, surrounded by lights that animated his performance into a musical adventure of sorts. This solo act from Los Angeles makes music so sonic that it conjures up all the visuals anyone needs to play along with the sound, no screens necessary, it's industrial for the imagination.
Continues
Many of the true industrial heads were overwhelmed with excitement for Seattle's Assemblage 23. The band had an incredibly kinetic feel, veering on drum and bass, to make all the goths dance and surge with industrial ecstasy.
Assemblage 23
The duo of Heather Gabel and Seth Sher create one of the most harrowing shows you can ever be lucky enough to see. This duo, calling themselves Hide, do just that in the shadows, only illuminated by the strobes that catch half their movements. Seth Sher makes the noise that provides the canvas and Heather Gabel paints with her body and soul to put on a show too raw to critique. It comes from a deep, dark sex-death part of Heather's soul. I'd imagine most people assume art like this has to come from surviving something horrific, like silent screaming finally given a release. In making art like this, it becomes an incredibly moving experience for people in the audience that recognize the screams.
HideHide
The sleeper hit of the festival for me was C-Tec. This is one of those bands you have to really be into the industrial scene to know, and myself, as just a fan of the icons of the genre, was only being introduced to them now. They were absolutely riveting, the first band of the weekend that really got the audience dancing in some kind of euphoric, mindless state. With members from Front 242 and Cubanate, C-Tec takes EBM to its most thrilling heights.
C-Tec
The Black Queen headlining Cold Waves LA, in their hometown, on the same night as their record release for Infinite Games was a landmark performance for singer Greg Puciato. Why? Because this was the moment that the Dillinger Escape Plan chapter of his life as a musician was finally closed. Even though the band had dissolved last year, this performance cemented The Black Queen as his main band and not his "side-project".
Infinite Games is an amazing album with plenty of goth bangers and atmospheric haze to wrap your head around. With light tubes pulsing on stage as all three members of The Black Queen played, the set was an overwhelming experience of sound and vision that we were guided through by the incredibly gripping melody of Greg's voice and the hooks of his lyrics.
Opening with the first single off the new record, "Thrown Into The Dark", the band hit the ground running and the audience exploded with cyberpunk glee. After hitting songs like "Ice To Never", "Secret Scream", and "The End Where We Start", the set ended with "Apocalypse Morning" and just like the smoke and dust rising up from the ground after a bombraid, the set ended in murky electronic noise and haze.
The Black QueenDay 3
Day 3 of Cold Waves LA included sets by HAEX, Actors, H3llb3nt, Chemlab, Night Club, and the legendary Frontline Assembly.
HaexHaexActorsActorsH3llb3ntChemlabChemlabNight ClubNight ClubFrontline AssemblyFrontline Assembly
Words by: Rob Shepyer
Photos by: Abraham Preciado
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Photos by: Abraham Preciado In the 1980’s, Chicago was the epicenter of North America’s Industrial music explosion with Wax Trax records birthing some of the genre’s most iconic bands, namely Ministry. Chicago’s importance in the history of Industrial music cannot be overstated. That’s why when Cold Waves, the country’s premiere Industrial festival, announced it was bringing it’s cavalcade of musicians to Los Angeles, it was a big deal for the genre and our city. I still regret missing the first Cold Waves LA last year and so, made sure to attend this year’s. 1720 might seem like a hidden gem because of the surrounding debris and chaos of the area it resides in but after spending my weekend there, I can say it’s one of the better venues in Los Angeles. This is the case for a few reasons, the sound quality and stage being at the top of that list but also its comfortable, well air conditioned atmosphere and it’s smoking area, where bands and audience become one. Day 1 The festival began with a DJ set by legendary artist Rhys Fulber of Front Line Assembly. His set was moody and brooding, the sounds of circuity unnerving due to
