Date: July 24, 2007
Location: Axis - Boston, MA
Bands: Motion City Soundtrack, The Higher, Sherwood

Those looking for a dance party, found it.

When Motion City Soundtrack hit the road again after recording their newest release, "Even If It Kills Me", they wanted to bring it back to basics. Hitting the same cities they'd been touring in over the last few years, they selected some of their favorite - and smallest - venues to play host to a tour featuring similarly-minded dance/synth/pop-focused artists, a move that pleased fans that managed to get tickets, and bitterly disappointed those that took their chances.

Sherwood opened the night with a synth-based pop that seemed to almost mimic that of the headliners, minus Justin Pierre's distinct voice and brash lyrics. Even if there was nothing particularly original or ear-catching about Sherwood, they were a perfect fit for this type of tour, and got the dance party started.

The buzz surrounding Las Vegas-based band, The Higher, has been growing louder and louder since the band signed to Epitaph, and many bloggers feel that the metaphorical lyrics and style have the band poised to follow in the footsteps of another Las Vegas group: Panic! At The Disco. Despite the similarities in musical style, the stage personas of those in The Higher are a far cry from the witty sarcasm of PATD frontman Brendon Urie. Instead, vocalist Seth comes off brash and immature, turning off some fans in the audience that might've otherwise been turned into fans.

But it was obvious that the fans were there to support a band that has long been a favorite in the scene: Motion City Soundtrack. The intimate setting of Axis nightclub benefited the show, as almost the entire floor danced, swayed, and jumped in unison, the entire thing led by Pierre. Throwing in some old favorites off "Commit This To Memory" and debuting several new tracks off "Even If It Kills Me", he kept the audience in the palm of his hand the entire night. Energetic performances by the rest of the band, including several Moog-handstands brought back fond memories for old fans, and created memories for newer fans.

Personally, there's no other way I would've wanted to spend my last show at the legendary Axis nightclub, which has played host to punk favorites for more than ten years. A drama-free show that was all about having fun was the best way for the club to be remembered.