On Monday, May 12th, 2025, Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, came alive with the powerful and electrifying energy of rock ‘n’ roll as legendary rock giants AC/DC brought their highly anticipated ‘Power Up’ tour to town. Joined by the fierce and captivating band, THE PRETTY RECKLESS, the evening was set to become a landmark event for rock enthusiasts, drawing a massive crowd eager to witness these two powerhouse acts. Fans poured into the venue from across the region, creating an atmosphere charged with anticipation and excitement.
As daylight faded and stage lights illuminated the sprawling stadium, an infectious energy swept through the audience, building anticipation for the unforgettable performances to come. Fans of all generations, proudly sporting vintage band shirts and tour merchandise, mingled and shared stories, underscoring the multi-generational appeal and lasting legacy of the bands on the bill. The atmosphere was electric, setting the stage perfectly for an evening of rock ‘n’ roll celebration.
THE PRETTY RECKLESS: Raw Power and Captivating Presence
Kicking off the night was the dynamic rock outfit THE PRETTY RECKLESS, fronted by the mesmerizing and powerful vocalist TAYLOR MOMSEN. The band wasted no time diving into their energetic set, opening boldly with the hit “Death by Rock and Roll.” Momsen’s commanding presence and powerful vocals quickly captivated the audience, as she seamlessly navigated through fan favorites like “Make Me Wanna Die” and “My Medicine.” Her raw emotion and intensity were palpable, connecting deeply with fans as they sang along passionately.
The group’s impressive musicianship, spearheaded by guitarist BEN PHILLIPS, bassist MARK DAMON, and drummer JAMIE PERKINS, underscored their tight chemistry and high-energy performance. Tracks such as “Heaven Knows” and “Miss Nothing” resonated deeply, showcasing both lyrical depth and musical precision. By the time they closed their set with the anthemic “Take Me Down,” THE PRETTY RECKLESS had undeniably won over the crowd, leaving the audience energized and eager for more.
A Young ANGUS YOUNG: Capturing the Spirit of Rock
One of the standout highlights from the audience was a young fan channeling his inner Angus Young, complete with the iconic schoolboy outfit. His enthusiasm perfectly captured the spirit of the evening, drawing smiles and cheers from everyone around him, and reminding attendees that rock ‘n’ roll truly bridges generations.
AC/DC: A Thunderous Return
As the lights dimmed and iconic riffs filled the air, the legendary AC/DC stormed the stage to an eruption of cheers. Launching their set with the explosive “If You Want Blood (You’ve Got It),” the band immediately demonstrated why they remain one of rock’s most influential and revered acts. BRIAN JOHNSON‘s unmistakable vocals, ANGUS YOUNG‘s electrifying guitar work, STEVIE YOUNG‘s rhythm guitar, CLIFF WILLIAMS‘ steady bass lines, and PHIL RUDD‘s relentless drumming combined to create a powerhouse performance filled with both nostalgia and fresh excitement.
Their setlist offered a spectacular blend of classics and newer tracks from ‘Power Up.’ Fan favorites such as “Back in Black,” “Thunderstruck,” and “You Shook Me All Night Long” had the stadium echoing with sing-alongs, while newer material like “Demon Fire” and “Realize” showcased the band’s enduring relevance and vitality. ANGUS YOUNG’s iconic duckwalk and electrifying solos captivated the crowd, reinforcing his status as a legendary performer. The band’s powerful stage presence and timeless music transformed Northwest Stadium into an electrifying celebration of rock history.
A Night of Timeless Rock
Reflecting on the entire evening, the show at Northwest Stadium was undeniably more than just another rock concert; it was a powerful testament to the lasting legacy and universal appeal of rock music. Both AC/DC and THE PRETTY RECKLESS delivered performances that were energetic, passionate, and deeply connected to their fans. The blending of seasoned veterans and dynamic newer acts highlighted the ongoing vitality and evolving spirit of rock ‘n’ roll.
As fans left the stadium, their enthusiasm and exhilaration were palpable, discussing highlights of the night and cherishing the powerful memories created. The concert not only reaffirmed the enduring popularity of AC/DC but also solidified THE PRETTY RECKLESS as a force to be reckoned with in the rock scene. For everyone in attendance, it was a night to remember, marking another remarkable chapter in the continuing story of rock music.
