Last Tuesday, September 16, 2025, The Anthem in Washington, DC, wasn’t just a concert venue — it was the epicenter of raw energy, emotion, and connection. The Rise of the Roach Tour rolled in full force, featuring Papa Roach, Rise Against, and Underoath, delivering performances that ranged from aggressive riffs to deeply personal lyrics.

Opening Acts: Setting the Stage

Doors opened at 7:00 PM, and by the time Underoath hit the stage, the venue was buzzing with excitement. The crowd was a mix of longtime fans, newcomers drawn by the hype, and people just craving that combination of intensity and vulnerability.

Underoath kicked things off around 7:00 PM, delivering a brutal, atmospheric set that was heavy, emotional, and absolutely gripping.

Rise Against followed at about 7:50 PM, bringing melodic yet politically charged punk energy. Their anthems had the crowd on their feet, fists pumping, and voices singing along. They were the perfect bridge between Underoath’s intensity and what was coming from the headliners.

Headliners: Papa Roach

At around 9:20 PM, the lights dimmed, and Papa Roach took the stage. What followed was everything fans could have hoped for: nostalgia, high energy, and emotional depth.

Standout moments included:

A setlist that balanced classic hits with newer material. Songs like Even If It Kills Me, Scars, Between Angels and Insects, and Last Resort had the crowd fully engaged.

The dynamic contrast between Underoath’s heaviness, Rise Against’s anthemic energy, and Papa Roach’s mix of aggression and emotion made the night feel alive and unpredictable.

Crowd participation was off the charts. By the time Papa Roach hit their big choruses, the audience was singing along so loudly it almost drowned out the band — a collective release of energy and emotion.

More Than Just a Show

What made Tuesday night truly special wasn’t just the music — it was the shared experience. For many in the crowd, this was their first concert, and you could feel the excitement in every scream, cheer, and fist in the air.

The night told a story: starting with the heavier, confessional darkness of Underoath, moving through the urgency and intensity of Rise Against, and ending with the catharsis, solidarity, and hope delivered by Papa Roach.

This tour reminded everyone that rock, punk, and metal aren’t just about loud music — they’re about connection. They’re about facing struggles, embracing vulnerability, and finding strength together. For fans seeking something real, nights like this are unforgettable.

Special Thanks to Live Nation DMV for letting us cover this show.

Photos And Review by: Henry Montano