Papa Roach concert review

I've been following Papa Roach since 2003, and I’ve seen them live 5 times over the years — the last one just two years ago. I never expected a stadium-level experience; they’ve always been a band with a loyal niche fanbase rather than a mainstream act. But what I witnessed in Milan on August 3rd, 2025, at Parco Magnolia was by far the most soulless show I’ve attended from them.

Yes, the songs were sung well. Yes, the setlist was solid — the usual hits, tight performance, well executed. But everything about it screamed autopilot. There was no passion, no connection with the audience. It felt like a stop on a checklist: “Let’s do this gig, get paid, and move on.”

What truly shocked me — and I’ve been going to concerts for over two decades — was the complete absence of a supporting band. Instead, we got an utterly tone-deaf and unskilled DJ set by “Emo Night,” which was both uninspired and borderline painful. No energy, no skill, no engagement with the crowd. It felt like an afterthought, or worse, a placeholder.

The band came on at 9:30 PM. Played until 11:00 PM. No encore. Just ended with Last Resort, which by now — after 20 years — felt more like an obligation than a celebration. Perhaps I’m just tired of hearing it, but it was the least inspired version I’ve ever experienced.

Another moment that completely broke the mood was a pre-recorded video played on the screen, where Jacoby gave a heartfelt (but clearly scripted and prerecorded) speech about being there for people struggling with suicidal thoughts. The message was important — but the format felt forced and misplaced. A live moment would have carried more emotional weight, rather than a sterile, rehearsed video.

Ultimately, this concert felt like it had no soul. Not from the band, not from the organizers. A forced date, poorly handled. And honestly, I think it might be my last Papa Roach show. Either they have nothing left to say — or I have nothing left to hear from them.