Blink-182 Tribute Band expands their pop-punk tribute for Blink Universe – Texx and the City

Blink-182 Tribute Band is bringing a heavy dose of 2000s pop-punk nostalgia back to Johannesburg and Pretoria, expanding their live tribute to Blink-182 to include some of the projects that grew out of the band’s orbit. Following the success of last year’s shows at Sognage and Railways Café, the new edition is called Blink Universe, and will feature Blink-182 favourites alongside songs by +44, Angels & Airwaves, and Box Car Racer.

The live band sees Garth Barnes and Jono Bell return, joined by Jaco BrittZ of CrashCarBurn on guitar and Brogan Thompson of Made For Broadway on bass. The set will cover Blink-182 staples including “All The Small Things”, “What’s My Age Again?”, “The Rock Show”, “First Date”, “I Miss You” and “Dammit”, alongside material from the band members’ various post-blink projects. Garth Barnes has also confirmed that songs from Tweak, his own pop-punk project, will make their way into the set.

“This year we’re mixing it up and can’t wait to play the new material from the Blink Universe,” says Barnes. “We’ve got Brogan on bass and Jaco on guitar this time, and we’re looking forward to ripping it up.” Drummer Jono Bell, meanwhile, says playing the material is particularly meaningful given his admiration for Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker. “These shows are going to pump, and it’s so awesome to play the Blink Universe on the drums,” he says. “Travis Barker has always been my favourite drummer, and it’s a dream come true to play this music alongside such talented musicians.”

Away from the live sets, DJs will keep the nostalgia going with a soundtrack of 2000s pop-punk, emo, alternative and rock. Sognage will feature Kerry-Anne Allerston, while Railways Café will host Stephanie B and Mike Bower B2B. Between the skinny jeans, questionable haircuts and songs last heard through a questionable LimeWire download, Blink Universe is promising a night built around the music of a very specific era — and an “irresponsible amount” of pop-punk nostalgia.

Tickets for Blink Universe are available via Quicket and railwayscafe.co.za.