Flyleaf: Generations Collide for 20th Anniversary Tour
Written by John Mai | August 3, 2026
It's been about two decades since Flyleaf released their self-titled debut album, yet you never would have guessed it from the energy inside Southside Ballroom. This concert was special for more than a couple of reasons. Not only was this a performance for the band’s 20th anniversary tour, but it also marked the return of original vocalist Lacey Sturm, who left the band in 2014.
Photos by John Mai
Before they took to the stage, Flyleaf brought out three opening acts: aka Bobby, Resident Hero, and Big Story. aka Bobby treated the audience to a raw, stripped-down performance, Resident Hero brought out true, unmistakable early 2000’s rock energy, and Big Story kept the alt-rock momentum rolling. Together, the three acts served as the perfect appetizer to complement the crowd’s hunger for the main act.
Immediately, the crowd went wild as Flyleaf members hit the stage, peaking when Sturm finally appeared amidst smoke, dim red light, and shadows. And what we were treated to was truly incredible: raw energy, crushing riffs, and passionate performances from all five musicians on stage. Headbanging, jumping off the speakers, and feeding off audience excitement, it was genuinely impressive how the band kept the entire audience captivated without backup dancers, props, or fancy gimmicks.
To be completely honest, I wasn't very familiar with the band’s full catalogue beforehand, but hearing these songs live gave me a deeper appreciation for their impact and musicality. When the storm hit after the calm intro during “Fire Fire,” I felt like my eyes (and ears) were opened, and that same energy carried through with crowd favorites like “Fully Alive” and “Sorrow.”
Photos by John Mai
One song I did know well beforehand was “I’m So Sick,” and the live version did not disappoint, with the piercing screams cutting through the room and probably awakening my emo era that I never got to experience. However, the true standout for me was “So I Thought,” a surprisingly tender and passionate ballad. Watching the crowd embrace its vulnerability made it clear that the song struck a deeply personal chord with longtime fans.
Looking back at that night, I am genuinely glad I got the opportunity to see this band and witness the multigenerational love they received that night. In an era where trends in music and entertainment seem to fly by at lightning speed, seeing a venue packed with twenty years' worth of fans was a powerful reminder that good music endures.
