First Day Back

Thundering out of Santa Cruz’s thriving and resurgent music scene, First Day Back have spenttheir final years in college solidifying their place in the emo revival revival. Heralded as the rightful torchbearers of second wave emo, First Day Back recalls the vocal exasperation of Cap'n Jazz, the twinkle of American Football, and the youthful exuberance of Braid, all while reinventing the sound with the organic additions of violin and harmonica.

A love letter to the past,Their debut and sole album Forward, self-released in June 2025, was recorded utilizing the acoustics of their Empire Grade house living room, and a muted blue that graces the cover matches the outer panelling of this sentimental domicile key to to the band’s foundations and process.

"Forward enchants on first listen, Pitchfork wrote in their 8.1 review "First Day Back play with a transparency usually reserved for private moments: screaming into a pillow in your bedroom, or putting your hoodie up to stress-cry on the bus. "The quintet's DIY perspective continues in their live show, which began in houses and anarchist bookstores before blossoming with sold out tours opening for Algernon Cadwallader, EveryoneAsked About You, and Jejune, where thousands of kids screamed along to every word, wax, and woo.

Catch the band on their debut Australian tour when they hit the Lansdowne Hotel in Sydney on Friday, 2nd October!

- Main line: +61 2 9209 4792
- Venue management: +61 2 9209 4700

- Located at main entrance
- Open 1 hour before event start time
- Valid photo ID required for ticket pickup
- Online booking confirmation recommended

- Limited street parking available
- Nearby paid parking stations
- Public transport recommended
- Closest train station: Central Station (10-minute walk)

- Ground floor accessible areas
- Wheelchair spaces available
- Companion card accepted
- Staff can assist with special seating requirements

- 18+ venue for most events
- No outside food or drinks
- No re-entry policy
- Dress code: Smart casual
- ID mandatory for alcohol service

- Strictly 18+ after 8:00 PM
- No minors permitted in performance spaces
- All-ages events may occur during daytime with specific restrictions