Chicago’s own Knuckle Puck brings energy back to their hometown

By EmmaJane Bauer

Walking into the massive Riviera Theatre with booming speakers and a packed auditorium, the beloved Chicago band Knuckle Puck played their only hometown show planned for 2026 on April 2, making it a highly anticipated show for Chicago natives in the emo and pop-punk scene. 

Since starting in 2010, Knuckle Puck continues with all its original members, and is currently on tour with The Wonder Years and Weakened Friends for their 10th anniversary tour around the UK, the United States and Canada. 

An electric energy was felt throughout the old theatre walls as the cavernous space echoed with loud music. From start to finish, the onstage energy was intense and fast-paced, with lead singer Joe Taylor carrying most of it with unrelenting excitement. 

Chicago welcomed back the once smaller hometown band and reminisced on their younger punkier days. 

Photos By: EmmaJane Bauer