The energy inside The Observatory in Orange County on March 13 felt like stepping into a time capsule. With Anberlin headlining and Spitalfield and Copeland opening the night, the show was a tribute to an era that defined a generation of alternative rock fans. Each band pulled deep from their 2005 catalog, offering a setlist that transported the audience straight back to the MySpace days.
Copeland’s frontman jokingly described the night’s music as “MySpace pop rock,” a fitting moniker that resonated with the crowd. The nostalgia ran thick—not just in the songs but in the stories shared. One fan reminisced about buying Anberlin’s first CD and burning a copy for his girlfriend. (For the uninitiated, “burning a CD” refers to copying an album onto a blank disc—an essential act of teenage romance in the early 2000s.)
Anberlin is celebrating 20 years of their iconic album Never Take Friendship Personal playing the entire album from front to back. This special anniversary performance made the night even more unforgettable for longtime fans.
The passion for Anberlin was undeniable. Some fans traveled across the country just to witness the band in this special moment. Despite the departure of their longtime singer, Anberlin has found new life with Matty Mullins stepping in. Copeland’s lead singer took a moment to acknowledge their perseverance, stating, “The world is better when Anberlin is rockin’.” It was clear that, despite lineup changes, the band remains a true collective, carrying forward their legacy with heart and conviction.
As the night drew to a close, Anberlin thanked their fans for two decades of unwavering support. Matty himself expressed that if he weren’t on stage, he would have bought a ticket for this tour, emphasizing just how special the lineup was. During the encore, they surprised the audience with a rare performance of a song from the 2005 era—one that had never been finished. Matty revealed that he had received a Dropbox folder full of unreleased tracks from that time, an unexpected gift from the band’s past.
For those lucky enough to be there, this show was more than just a concert; it was a reunion with the music that shaped them. Anberlin, Spitalfield, and Copeland didn’t just revisit 2005—they made it feel alive again!
Anberlin – March 13, 2025 – The Observatory OC
Photos by: Elizabeth Villagomez
Did you attend this tour? Comment below.
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