The Merseyside magic was palpable as My Chemical Romance tore up the stage at Anfield on Tuesday night, June 30. The opening show of their 'Black Parade' UK tour had the crowd electric from the get-go, and it wasn't long before lead singer Gerard Way gave a nod to the home of Liverpool FC – one that would leave fans purring like a pride of lions. It started with a rare treat: the first live performance in almost four years of 'Save Yourself, I'll Hold Them Back', plucked from their 2010 album 'Danger Days: The True Lives Of The Fabulous Killjoys'. That was followed by several heartfelt nods to the Reds.
As they ripped through their 25-track setlist – which also featured an early rendition of 'Mama' and a thrilling performance of 'I'm Not Okay (I Promise)' - it became clear that this was no ordinary gig. Even guitarist Frank Iero's old-school Steven Gerrard shirt, bearing the number '8', didn't go unnoticed. It turned out Way had a cheeky message for fans: "Frank got me a top with my name on it," he quipped from the stage.
But it was more than just a passing fancy – Iero's love affair with Liverpool FC has long been well-documented, and Tuesday night saw him take his devotion to new heights. His Instagram video, posted ahead of the show, revealed customised Reds jerseys emblazoned with the number '26', accompanied by that now-familiar hashtag #UpTheReds.
The concert itself was a masterclass in pacing and energy – My Chemical Romance tore through their early 2000s anthems, from 'Helena' to 'Na Na Na (Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na)', before shifting gears into fan-favourite territory. As the night drew to a close, an unforgettable treat awaited: a recording of Liverpool FC's beloved anthem 'You'll Never Walk Alone', played over the PA system – the icing on the cake for this Reds-loving crowd.
The band will be back in action soon, with shows scheduled for Glasgow and three dates at London's Wembley Stadium next week. Meanwhile, music fans can get their hands on a deluxe reissue of 'Danger Days: The True Lives Of The Fabulous Killjoys' from July 10 – featuring an exclusive cover of Pulp's 'Common People', no less.
It's safe to say that My Chemical Romance left their mark on Anfield, earning glowing reviews from critics and fans alike. With a performance that was equal parts razor-sharp precision and raw emotion, it's clear that this band still packs the punch that made them one of the world's most beloved rock outfits.