NEW FOUND GLORY LIVE!! | RITZ
New Found Glory Live at The Ritz – August 18, 2024
Venue: The Ritz, Raleigh, NC
Tour: Catalyst 20 Years Later Tour
Support Act: Sincere Engineer
Special Guests: Dan O'Connor (Four Year Strong), Dave Knox (Real Friends)
New Found Glory returned to Raleigh with a high-octane performance that honored the 20th anniversary of their seminal album Catalyst. The Ritz, packed wall-to-wall with fans of all ages, pulsed with energy as the band tore through a setlist that was both a tribute to their legacy and a reminder of their enduring relevance. From the moment the lights dimmed and the intro to “Catalyst” rang out, the crowd erupted. It was clear this wasn’t just a concert—it was a celebration of two decades of pop punk anthems, emotional catharsis, and community.
The band performed Catalyst nearly in full, along with a few surprises and fan favorites:
“All Downhill From Here” – the explosive opener that set the tone
“Truth of My Youth” and “Failure’s Not Flattering” – delivered with raw emotion and crowd-wide singalongs
“Ending in Tragedy” and “I’d Kill to Fall Asleep” – deeper cuts that resonated with longtime fans
“Understatement” and “Hit or Miss” – classic tracks that brought the house down
“Part of Your World” (Alan Menken cover) – a playful nod to their From the Screen to Your Stereo series
“Let It Go” (Kristen Anderson-Lopez & Robert Lopez cover) – a surprise that had the crowd belting out every word
“My Friends Over You” – the iconic closer that turned the venue into a pop punk choir
Special guests Dan O'Connor and Dave Knox joined the band on guitar, adding extra firepower and camaraderie to the performance.
Jordan Pundik’s vocals were as vibrant and emotive as ever, while Chad Gilbert’s guitar work and banter kept the energy high. Ian Grushka and Cyrus Bolooki anchored the rhythm section with precision and punch. The band’s chemistry was undeniable, and their joy in performing was infectious. Between songs, the band shared stories from the Catalyst era, thanked fans for their decades of support, and encouraged everyone to scream, jump, and celebrate. The Ritz’s intimate layout made every moment feel personal and electric.
Fans were visibly moved—singing, moshing, and even shedding tears during emotional tracks. The lighting design was bold and dynamic, shifting with the mood of each song. The crowd’s energy never dipped, and the band fed off it, delivering a performance that felt both nostalgic and fresh. New Found Glory’s 2024 show at The Ritz was more than a concert—it was a full-circle moment for fans and band alike. Celebrating Catalyst’s 20th anniversary in such an intimate, high-energy setting reminded everyone why NFG are considered pop punk royalty. For those in attendance, it was a night of joy, catharsis, and connection—and a reminder that some songs never stop mattering.
