The Fray
Article by Briana Sista
In the city that never sleeps, The Fray came to remind us why their music still echoes through the noise. For anyone born in the '90s, The Fray was probably mixed into your iPod Nano playlist or burned onto a CD at some point in your life. We’re all familiar with the tears shed listening to classics like ‘How to Save a Life’ or ‘You Found Me.’ That emotional pull was alive and well at Webster Hall. From the first strum to the last note, the crowd was transported back to simpler days when their songs were the backdrop to late-night drives, heartaches, and moments of quiet reflection. The Fray didn’t just perform; they reconnected us with pieces of ourselves their music helped shape, reminding us of the timelessness in their sound and the memories their songs continue to hold after all this time.
Pulling the audience into a new sonic chapter of their career, the night kicked off with ‘Angeleno Moon,’ the first song off their latest EP, The Fray Is Back. The energy in the room was pulsating, sending shivers down your spine—you could feel the relief; Everybody in the crowd felt free to let go and be in the moment. The room charged with anticipation as the lights dropped, and the familiar tick of the opening to ‘Over My Head (Cable Car)’ was heard. The instant recognition of the classic hit was electric as the audience joined in, voices rising to meet the band’s energy. It was a perfect contrast—new beginnings followed by a timeless anthem that still strikes a chord with every note.
As the night continued, The Fray seamlessly wove through a mix of fan favorites and deeper cuts. ‘Look After You’ captivated the audience with its soaring chorus and emotional depth, creating an intimate moment between the band and the crowd. The energy ramped back up with favorites such as ‘Love Don't Die,’ a punchier upbeat anthem that had the room fluttering with excitement. When they performed ‘Never Say Never,’ the entire venue seemed to hold its breath, hanging onto each tender lyric. The balance between high-energy hits and heart-wrenching ballads showcased the band’s versatility, and kept the audience engaged from start to finish.
As the final notes rang out and the lights dimmed, The Fray left the stage having delivered a performance both nostalgic and refreshingly new. Whether revisiting classics or showcasing new material, The Fray proved their ability to evolve while staying true to the sound that first captured our hearts. It was a night of emotional highs and reflective moments, and by the end one thing was clear—their music still holds a special place in all of us.
Webster Hall in New York, NY on September 30, 2024
Photos by Briana Sista
