Fox Theater in Oakland, CA — March 22, 2024

The Vaccines emerged from the vibrant indie rock scene of London in the late 2000s, quickly establishing themselves as one of the most exciting bands to come out of the UK in recent years. In 2011, The Vaccines released their highly anticipated debut album, “What Did You Expect from The Vaccines?,” to widespread critical acclaim. The Vaccines have continued to build on their early success, releasing a string of acclaimed albums and touring the globe, captivating audiences with their high-energy performances and infectious stage presence. With each new release, they have evolved and matured as artists, exploring new sounds while staying true to the guitar-driven sounds that first propelled them to fame. From the moment the band burst onto the stage with the anthemic “Wreckin’ Bar (Ra Ra Ra),” the crowd was swept up in a frenzy of excitement. Frontman Justin Young’s charismatic presence commanded the stage as he led the band through a setlist spanning their impressive catalog. Hits like “If You Wanna,” “Post Break-Up Sex,” and “I Always Knew” had the audience bouncing and singing along, their catchy choruses echoing throughout the theater. The Vaccines’ trademark blend of punk-infused indie rock reverberated through the venue, fueling the crowd’s energy ready for The Kooks’ headlining set.

Words & Photography: Sabrina Poei