January 31, 2026

The Souls took over Crossroads in Garwood, New Jersey for two days playing 3 shows. I was able to catch the afternoon show on Saturday the 31st and the Souls did not disappoint. This was my first Bouncing Souls show and I know that’s a sin, especially me being from NJ but better late than never. Doors were at 2:30 PM and the line was around the building in the freezing cold NJ winter waiting with anticipation, Crossroads isn’t a big venue, maybe 300 cap? but I was able to get right up in front to the stage, they have no barricade, I was right at the guitarist Pete Steinkopf’s feet and people actually needed to duck from his guitar headstock when he was rocking out. Luckily the crowd wasn’t as wild as I’ve seen bigger shows on YouTube so I could easily get some shots of the band. They ripped through a 22-song set with throwbacks for their dedicated fanbase of True Believers and also played hits like “Hopeless Romantic” and “Gone.” I’ve seen Bouncing Soul tattoos and tee shirts almost my whole life and I finally understand the loyalty from the fans and love for the band’s music; it’s a united community of True Believers.

The Bouncing Souls

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