Following the release of their fifth LP in 2024, a self-titled number that they referred to as a record that “truly embodies who [they] are as a band,” four-piece pop punk icons State Champs have only been moving up. The subsequent headlining tour, overseas runs, festival appearances, and support slots with legacy acts had them playing to their biggest crowds yet. Amongst some of their largest career achievements to date, State Champs has also taken the time to reminisce: they honored the 10 year anniversary of their beloved debut record, The Finer Things, with a round of hometown shows in New York in 2023. They closed out 2025 with a handful of “back to basics” packed, no barricade, high energy, small venue gigs. Finally, to kick off 2026, the band is embarking on a tour celebrating 10 years of their sophomore album, Around the World and Back. The short eight show run is backed by a number of incredible artists on varying dates, including Real Friends, Cartel, Origami Angel, Driveways, Honey Revenge, Harrison Gordon, Broadside, Just Friends, Mallory Run, and Summerbruise. It was snowy and almost dipping into negative temperatures when the band arrived at The Agora in Cleveland, along with Mallory Run, Driveways, and Real Friends as the support for this date.

State Champs, which consists of Derek DiScanio (vocals), Tyler Szalkowski (guitar), Ryan Scott Graham (bass), and Evan Ambrosio (drums), has always been known for their high energy. They enter the stage with just as much enthusiasm as they did 10 years ago; the eagerness of a young band has transformed into seasoned charismatic performers. The majority of the set consists of a full play through of Around the World and Back, this tour being the first time the album has been played in its entirety. With tracks like “Secrets” and “All You Are is History,” it’s an easy reminder to longtime and new fans alike what drew them to the band in the first place.

When asked who was seeing them for the first time that night, a shockingly low amount of hands went into the air. The overwhelming majority were returners, dedicated listeners who have been following the band for ten years or longer. “I see a lot of familiar faces out there,” DiScanio says with a huge grin. “This is really cool.” Their dedication is evident throughout the set, especially prominent during the title track, “Around the World and Back,” which features Jule Vera on the studio version. The band counts on the crowd to sing her verse, and they respond back with every word. For about 40 minutes, the room is filled with nostalgia as they close out the record play through with “Slow Burn” off the deluxe album. 

“This record laid the groundwork for all of our future success and we will be forever grateful to it.”

Following the record play through, the band returned for an eight song encore, playing songs from their other four albums, from newer tracks “Light Blue” and “Common Sense” to older hits “Remedy” and “Elevated.” Hard-hitting and catchy as always, State Champs sticks to their signature sound, proving why it has worked so well for over ten years. The blend of old and new celebrates the journey of the band, honoring their past and a testament of their longevity while looking forward to what’s next.