Dublin’s iconic 3Olympia Theatre played host to an absolutely stellar performance by Arizona’s own Jimmy Eat World on June 10, 2025. It had been nine long years since their last Irish outing, and the anticipation in the sold-out venue was palpable. Fans, many of whom have grown up with the band’s anthems, were not disappointed.
From the moment Jim Adkins and co. took to the stage, the energy was electric. The band, celebrating three decades of their distinctive sound, effortlessly blended their early emo-tinged classics with their more polished, alternative rock hits.
The Olympia, with its intimate yet grand setting, proved to be the perfect backdrop for Jimmy Eat World’s meticulously crafted sound. The acoustics were phenomenal, allowing every intricate guitar riff and soaring vocal harmony to cut through with crystal clarity – a truly remarkable sound that felt almost like a KEXP session.
The setlist was a masterclass in balance, weaving through their extensive discography. Crowd-pleasers like “The Middle” and “Bleed American” ignited passionate sing-alongs, transforming the theatre into a unified chorus of voices. But it wasn’t just the well-known hits that resonated; deeper cuts and tracks from more recent albums were met with equal enthusiasm, demonstrating the band’s enduring connection with their dedicated fanbase. The intricate layering of instruments and vocals, a hallmark of Jimmy Eat World’s sound, was particularly evident, creating an immersive and powerful experience.
What truly set this gig apart was the band’s stage presence. Jim Adkins, ever the engaging frontman, exuded a genuine warmth and appreciation for the Dublin crowd, even remarking that the Olympia is “one of my favourite stages in the world to be on.” The band as a whole delivered a tight, energetic, and flawlessly executed performance, proving that after all these years, they are still a formidable force in live music.
Jimmy Eat World’s return to Dublin was more than just a concert; it was a journey through musical nostalgia, a powerful reminder of their enduring impact, and a testament to their continued excellence as live performers. For those lucky enough to secure a ticket, it was an unforgettable night of soaring melodies and raw emotion that left everyone buzzing.
Jimmy Eat World photos & set-list:
Set-list:
Pain
Just Tonight…
Sweetness
Something Loud
Big Casino
Your House
If You Don’t, Don’t
Criminal Energy
Let It Happen
23
Work
Blister
555
Hear You Me
All the Way – Stay
Lucky Denver Mint
A Praise Chorus
Bleed American
The Middle
__________________
For Me This Is Heaven
The World You Love
Photos & words – David McEneaney @experimentzero