The Fray and 20 Years of Saving Lives

8/23/2025 - The WIltern - Los Angeles, California.

It’s wild to think it’s been 20 years since The Fray released their debut album How to Save a Life, the record that made them a household name.

I remember hearing their songs all over the radio back in high school and college, as they became part of everyday life for an entire generation. To celebrate the anniversary, the band hit the road with a special tour, bringing along different supporting acts for each stop. For the Los Angeles date, we got Landon Barker and The Strike.

First up was Landon Barker, who walked on stage shirtless, tattoos and all, channeling an old-school punk vibe. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but his performance was a pleasant surprise.

He opened with “Run,” a track that had the crowd vibing right away. Then came a heavier rock version of MGMT’s “Kids,” stripped of the electronics and replaced with gritty guitars. Halfway through the set, there was a surprise guest—his dad, Travis Barker, who jumped on stage for a cover of Surf Curse’s “Freaks.”

The crowd lost it. It was a wholesome father-son moment that showed real family support and chemistry.

Next was The Strike, led by frontman Chris Crabb, who walked on with a smile and immediately kicked into “Overtime,” the first track off their 2022 album The Lost Years.

Their synth-pop sound felt like a love letter to the 80s but modernized, warm, and full of life. Crabb’s voice cut clearly through the mix, and the entire band played in perfect sync. No instrument overpowered another, and every member shined.

Their nine-song set turned the Wiltern into a full-on dance party.

Then it was time for the main event, The Fray. Twenty years of How to Save a Life all came together on stage. They started with “She Is” and “All at Once,” then brought Landon Barker back out for “Look After You.” The crowd sang every word, and for a moment, it felt like being back in those high school days when everyone listened to everything.

They performed the entire How to Save a Life album but rearranged, keeping the energy fresh while building anticipation for their biggest hits.

The lineup change in 2022 might have been controversial, but hearing Joe King take lead vocals felt natural. He’s been there since the start, and his slightly country twang tone gave the songs a melodic warmth that worked beautifully.

The lighting and stage setup were elegant, complementing the emotional weight of the music. When “How to Save a Life” started, the crowd sang louder than ever. It was one of those moments where artist and audience became one voice.

The Fray followed the album run-through with several fan favorites and a stunning cover of The Cranberries’ “Dreams.” They wrapped the night with a three-song encore that ended in pure joy and nostalgia.

After twenty years, The Fray still knows how to save hearts one song at a time.