top of page

Best Show of the Year? Bouncing Souls Night 3 in California

Sara Saturday

George and Pete of the Bouncing Souls. Photo by Auberon Webber

On the third and final night of their residency at the Garden Amp in Garden Grove, CA. The Bouncing Souls delivered a performance that will undoubtedly go down as one of the most electrifying shows of the year.


Gregg of the Bouncing Souls engages the crowd. Photo by Auberon Webber.

Against the crisp December night in Garden Grove, over 1,000 fans packed into the open-air venue, creating an energy so palpable it could melt the "California frost." The Souls capped off their three-night celebration by performing their iconic albums "How I Spent My Summer Vacation" and "Anchors Aweigh" in full, leaving no doubt as to why they remain one of punk rock’s most beloved bands.


Drew Baker and Si Short of The Jack Knives warm up the crowd. Photo by Auberon Webber.

Kicking off the night was Orange County’s own The Jack Knives, a band with rising momentum and undeniable grit. Tasked with warming up an audience eager for some punk rock legends, they delivered in spectacular fashion. Their 30-minute set showcased tracks from their catalog and hinted at what’s to come from their next album, produced by none other than Bouncing Souls guitarist Pete Steinkopf.


The Jack Knives. Photo by Auberon Webber.

From the moment they hit the stage, The Jack Knives commanded attention. Their punk-rock anthems—catchy, heartfelt, and dripping with authenticity—captivated a crowd that wasn’t necessarily looking for new discoveries. By the time they closed their set, any skeptics had been silenced, and the band left to raucous applause from new converts and loyal fans alike.


Swingin' Utters put on a masterclass. Photo by Auberon Webber.

Next up, the legendary Swingin’ Utters stormed the stage, bringing their signature blend of raw energy and time-earned polish. Once mainstays of every notable punk lineup, the band has seen a resurgence recently, and it’s easy to see why. Their set was a relentless barrage of fast-paced, melodic, and gritty punk, infused with a vitality that many younger bands can only aspire to.


Lead vocalist Johnny Bonnel was in top form, belting out fan favorites and deep cuts alike with a ferocity that defied the cold air. The chemistry among the band members, honed over decades of performing together, was palpable. Swingin’ Utters proved they’ve not only stayed relevant but have also cemented their place as a cornerstone of the punk scene.

Pete Setinkopf of the Bouncing Souls. Photo by Auberon Webber.

Finally, as the anticipation reached a fever pitch, The Bouncing Souls took the stage. Singer Gregg Attonito, seated due to a broken ankle, showed that nothing—not even injury—could dampen his ability to command a crowd. Flanked by his long time best friends and bandmates, Gregg led the Souls through every track from "How I Spent My Summer Vacation" and "Anchors Aweigh", two albums that have defined their legacy.



Bryan Kienlen of the Bouncing Souls. Photo by Auberon Webber.

From the first note to the final chord, the audience sang, screamed, and shouted along, creating a communal energy that filled the venue. Highlights of the night included “Gone,” “Kids and Heroes,” and “True Believers,” during which the Souls were joined by upcoming L.A punk rocker Rudy Nuño and Si Short from The Jack Knives. The song brought the house down, uniting the past and future of punk in one tangible moment.


As the final chords echoed into the night, the crowd poured out into the chilly air, hearts full and spirits high. For three nights, The Bouncing Souls had transformed the Garden Amp into a haven of nostalgia, with a hint towards the future for punk fans. Sunday’s finale was something truly special.


I heard numerous fans leaving the venue calling it “the best show of the year,” and it’s hard to argue with that sentiment. From The Jack Knives’ breakout performance to the Swingin’ Utters’ masterclass in punk rock longevity, to The Bouncing Souls’ triumphant and heartfelt set, this night was a testament to everything that makes our punk scene so enduring and electrifying.


For those lucky enough to be there, it wasn’t just a concert—it was a celebration of community, resilience, the past, the future and the music that brings us all together.



0 comments

Comments


© 2025 Orgcore.org

  • Instagram
bottom of page