Words and photos by Hana Tobias

On November 10, 2023, The Maine opened their Sweet Sixteen Tour at House of Blues San Diego. The pop punk band was supported at the sold-out show by opening acts flor and Weathers.

Weathers opened the show, the band filling the stage with seemingly boundless vigor. The group—consisting of lead vocalist Cameron Boyer, guitarist Cameron Olsen, and bassist Brennen Bates alongside touring drummer Christian Champion—is currently touring their newest album, Are We Having Fun?, released in May 2023. A smart choice to start the show on a high note from an energy perspective, the band enlisted the audience’s participation for their song “Where Do I Sign”, which had the crowd much more engaged than usually seen with an opener.

Next, flor performed a lighter alt-pop set. The band, hailing from Hood River, Oregon, has a rich, effervescent sound that induces joy in all who listen. Made up of frontman Zach Grace, bassist Dylan Bauld, and drummer Kyle Hill (alongside touring guitarist Val Hoyt), the group showcased strong chemistry, with a clear synergy present on stage. The setlist contained a balance of throwbacks to flor’s first album, come out. you’re hiding, as well as newer tracks, including their October-released single “Same Color as the Sun”. Songs like “warm blood” displayed Grace and Hoyt’s talent on guitar, and Hill’s prowess was evident throughout the night (which one fan noticed, yelling “Let Kyle cook!”).

Finally, The Maine took the stage, lead singer John O’Callaghan dressed in a black sequined suit that emulated the disco ball hanging over his head. Clearly a veteran performer, he effortlessly ensnared the crowd, jumping around the stage and joking around between songs (at one point referencing the Wonka trailer). The Arizona pop punk band (consisting of O’Callaghan, lead guitarist Jared Monaco, bass guitarist Garrett Nickelsen, drummer Patrick Kirch, and rhythm guitarist Kennedy Brock) is celebrating their sixteenth year as a band. Thus, it was fitting that their set, while containing a few songs from their 2023 self-titled album, was overall a diverse selection of newer tracks and throwback hits. Their popularity was clear, with the audience seemingly attempting to drown O’Callaghan out. From the first note of “dose no. 2” to the final cry of “Another Life on Mars”, The Maine maintained a dynamic energy, demonstrating the reason for their longevity and putting on an excellent show.