Frank Black’s return home to Boston at the House of Blues for his “Teenager of the Year” 30th Anniversary Tour was a masterclass in revisiting a classic album while keeping things fresh and exciting for longtime fans. The concept is simple yet brilliant: play the entirety of “Teenager of the Year”, all 22 tracks, and bookend it with selections from his other solo work. This structure allows for a deep dive into the album that many fans may have never experienced live while also offering the thrill of the unexpected with the opening and closing numbers.
The real magic of each night’s set lies in the song choices outside of the core “Teenager” tracks. Black has been juggling these songs nightly, injecting an element of surprise and anticipation into each performance. This approach must make every show a unique experience for his fans, drawing dedicated followers to multiple dates on the tour.
On Friday night, the show began with a one-two punch from Black’s self-titled album. “Czar” and “Ten Percenter” immediately ignited the crowd, setting a high-energy tone for the evening. These early selections served as a reminder of Black’s diverse solo catalog and showcased his ability to craft compelling songs beyond the “Teenager” era.
As the band then launched into “Teenager of the Year,” the atmosphere shifted. Fans settled in for a journey through the album, dancing and singing along to every word. Mid-set highlights included “Speedy Marie”, and powerful renditions of “Freedom Rock” and “Two Reelers,” both of which resonated deeply with the audience.
Black, known for his somewhat enigmatic stage presence, kept his interactions with the crowd brief and to the point. Occasional quips and anecdotes, mixed with his quick wit punctuated the set, but the focus remained squarely on the music. He let the songs speak for themselves, tearing through the material with his signature intensity.
The latter part of “Teenager of the Year” was delivered with a renewed sense of urgency. Ferocious versions of “White Noise Maker” and “Bad Wicked World” sent waves of excitement through the venue, demonstrating the raw power of Black’s live performances. After the final notes of “Pie in the Sky,” the closing track on “Teenager,” the audience eagerly awaited the encore. The anticipation was palpable as everyone wondered which songs Black would choose to cap off the night.
The choice of “Los Angeles” proved explosive. The song’s driving rhythm and anthemic chorus brought the energy in the room to a fever pitch. It was a perfect way to celebrate Black’s connection with his fans and to keep the crowd moving. “Everytime” was an additional choice nugget before the grand finale. Black and his band delivered a stunning rendition of “I Heard Ramona Sing”. This choice was a stroke of genius, transforming Black’s classic tune into a powerful sing-along. It was a unifying moment, bringing the entire audience together in a shared appreciation for Black’s musical vision and his ability to connect with his fans on a deep level.
