Boys Like Girls took to The Rooftop at Pier 17 in New York, NY, and delivered a performance that proved why they’ve been pop-punk favorites since their formation in 2005. The Boston-based band, consisting of lead vocalist Martin Johnson, guitarist Paul DiGiovanni, bassist Gregory James, and drummer John Keefe, first gained massive attention with their self-titled debut album in 2006. Known for their infectious hooks, high-energy performances, and relatable lyrics, Boys Like Girls have long been cherished by fans of the mid-2000s pop-punk and emo scenes.
Opening with "SUNDAY AT FOXWOODS / Love Drunk," the band immediately set a nostalgic tone, launching the audience into a mix of euphoric excitement and teenage memories. The seamless blend of old hits with newer material showed that Boys Like Girls have matured without losing the essence that made them so appealing in the first place. “Love Drunk” served as an instant crowd-pleaser, reminding everyone of their catchy, radio-ready choruses.
Tracks like “Five Minutes to Midnight” and “She’s Got a Boyfriend Now” brought the upbeat pop-punk energy fans came for, with the band maintaining tight musicianship and vocals that carried the excitement from start to finish. There was a certain electricity in the air when they shifted to “BLOOD AND SUGAR” and “LANGUAGE,” two newer tracks that proved the band hasn’t lost their touch in crafting infectious anthems.
The acoustic segment with “Heels Over Head / Hold My Breath” offered a poignant moment in the show, allowing Johnson's vocal range to shine against the twinkling lights of the New York City skyline. “Thunder” was another highlight, with its earnest lyrics and sweeping melody creating a powerful sing-along moment. As fans raised their voices, it felt like a time capsule from the late 2000s, but with an added layer of wisdom and maturity.
Photos: Ehud Lazin
The encore started with “Two Is Better Than One / Hero/Heroine,” and this medley captured the band’s evolution over the years. It felt like they were letting the audience in on an emotional journey, seamlessly blending tracks that once defined teenage love with those that now speak to a deeper sense of self. The performance ended with “The Great Escape,” which they played in two parts: a shortened version, followed by a reprise with a "Love Drunk" callback. This finale was the perfect way to send off the night, embodying the spirit of youthful freedom and a refusal to let go of those defining moments.
Boys Like Girls proved at The Rooftop at Pier 17 that they’re not just a band riding on nostalgia. They’re evolving, refining their sound, and reconnecting with their audience in a way that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern.
It was a performance that balanced the past and present, reminding everyone why we fell in love with them in the first place.
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