Bowling for Soup’s show at the Corner Hotel on December 12 felt like catching up with an old friend you haven’t seen in years—easygoing, full of laughs, and just as fun as you remembered. The intimate venue was the perfect spot for a night of pop-punk nostalgia, bringing fans together to celebrate the band’s signature mix of catchy tunes and self-aware humour.

From the first chord, it was clear this wasn’t going to be a serious show just about the music and that’s exactly what made it so great. Jaret Reddick, ever the charismatic frontman, had the crowd laughing and singing along, his voice as familiar as a well-worn playlist. Chris Burney’s laid-back guitar riffs were missed but Rob Felicetti’s driving bass and Gary Wiseman’s solid drumming kept the songs rolling with just the right amount of raw energy. It wasn’t about perfection; it was about having a damn good time.

The band didn’t just play music—they shared stories, cracked jokes, and made the whole night feel like a hangout. Jaret riffed on Aussie slang, aging, and the little quirks of life on tour, all while the crowd shouted back with cheers and laughter. It was the kind of interaction that made the room feel smaller in the best way like you were part of an inside joke.

There was something really special about hearing these songs live again—those anthems you used to blast with your friends, scream-singing in cars or bedrooms, were suddenly alive in the room. The crowd was all in, throwing their arms around each other, dancing, and shouting every word back at the band. It wasn’t just music; it was memories.

Opening the night was Taylor Acorn, who set the perfect tone for the evening with her blend of heartfelt pop-punk and country-tinged vibes. Armed with a strong voice and a magnetic stage presence, she quickly won over the crowd, even those who may not have been familiar with her music. Acorn’s relatable lyrics and catchy melodies made her set feel like a warm conversation with a friend, and her energy was infectious. Songs about love, heartbreak, and finding yourself resonated with the audience, who cheered her on as she joked about life and poured everything into her performance. By the time she wrapped up her set, she’d earned herself plenty of new fans and set the stage beautifully for what was to come.

By the end of the night, the Corner Hotel was buzzing with that warm, post-show glow. Bowling for Soup didn’t just play a gig—they gave fans a night to relive the good times while creating a few new ones. It was simple, fun, and exactly what you’d hope for from a band that’s been soundtracking our lives for years.

Thank you to Bowling For Soup, Taylor Acorn, Destroy All Lines, Dallas Does PR and the Corner Hotel for having MKA along

Photos & Review by Naga Kasu (@nagakasu) for Music Kingdom Australia (@musickingdomaustralia)