REVIEW: My Chemical Romance Kills it at the Palladium (with Circa Survive & The Architects)

My Chemical Romance has some of the most dedicated fans anywhere!  Quite a few were dressed like band members at various points in their career in military gear or shirts and ties.  More than half the crowd wore MCR t-shirts.  The level of excitment on the street in front of the Palladium this weekend was so thick it could be cut with a knife.
An army of their fans took lined up around the block to wait for the best view of the band either from the balcony or in the pit.  The older crowd came later.  MCR has dedicated fans of all ages.  Even some of the parents who escorted their kids to see the band seem impressed with the band's output, creativity, and heart for others.  MCR is a band to believe in these days.
The crowd cheered for opening act, The Architects, who were blessed to have a good size crowd.  The Architects are on the record label started by Frank Iero of MCR (though Frank no longer runs it.)  They are energetic performers and talented musicians.  This tour should be their big break.  (Someone ought to tell them that there is another person performing under the name Architect.)
Circa Survive got the crowd worked up a bit.  There were a few issues with the vocals cutting out.  Their backdrop while they performed was really cool.  They have sold out smaller venues and caused a small riot when they performed at the Pac Sun Beach Ballyhoo.  When they took they stage, 100 people or more jumped the barrier to get in.  They encourage moshing and crowd surfing.
But what the crowd really wanted was MCR.  Rather than over-the-top projections and sets, it was mainly just the band.  There were a few effects, but no major pyrotechnics.  The aggressive "Na Na Na (Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na)" was the perfect kickoff for the concert.  They saved "Helena" for close to the end and were sure to sing "I'm not OK (I Promise.)"
Their latest album really holds up well live and the band was in top form.  Dangerous pop sounds like an apt description, in the midst of heavy metal guitars, they always have a melody that rings out - either sung or played by Ray Toro on lead guitar.
Gerard Way is one of rock's most charismatic frontmen who keeps the audience in the palm of his hand.  His bright, fire-engine red hair and excited mannerisms seem almost like a Japanese anime cartoon.  The irony is that the band are living up to their cartoony image by authoring graphic novels in conjunction with their latest album, Danger Days.
Their heartfelt lyrics, passionate performing, and singalong anthems are sure to give their fans a great time all over the country.  For those who have met MCR in person, or read up on them, they know that the band are all super-nice Jersey Boys who aren't ashamed of their geeky, goth, or softer side.
 CREDIT: www.examiner.com