TVD Live Shots: Reel Big Fish and Anti-Flag at the Regency Ballroom, 2/15

In what has to be one of the most unexpected touring pair-ups so far this year, Reel Big Fish and Anti-Flag have teamed up for a co-headlining tour across North America along with support from Pkew Pkew Pkew and Ballyhoo! So what happens when you combine the good time party vibes of RBF’s ska with the punk political activism of Anti-Flag? Well according to San Francisco, the answer is good times.

Coincidence or not, both Reel Big Fish and Anti-Flag are celebrating the 20th anniversaries of milestone releases—Turn the Radio Off by RBF and Die for the Government by A-F. As such, both bands took the opportunity to recognize their respective milestones including a front-to-back run through by Reel Big Fish.

Anti-Flag delivered one of those crushing hour-long sets for which they are well-known. The front rows were seething with crowd surfers as the rest of the general admission floor left ample room for a large and enthusiastic pit. While likely a little more physical than they’re used to, AF’s infectious performance clearly drew in the RBF fans as Chris#2 and Pat Thetic ended the set on the floor in solidarity with the crowd for “Brandenburg Gate.”

While Anti-Flag would clearly be a tough act to follow, Reel Big Fish quickly showed that they were up to the task. I trio of fan favorites lightened the mood and whipped up the crowd for Turn the Radio Off, which had the whole of the venue skanking along to the good times. And what would a Reel Big Fish show be complete without a few covers? A-ha’s “Take on Me” wrapped up the evening in a tidy bow.