The All-American Rejects at The Western Idaho Fair + The Rise of Potato Man

This week on The Emo Hour, things get loud, nostalgic, and just a little bit crispy as Nani returns from the Western Idaho Fair with tales from the biggest crowd in fair history—gathered for none other than The All-American Rejects. That’s right: your favorite early 2000s heartbreakers are still kicking, and Nani was front and center for every guitar riff, every scream-along chorus, and yes, even the world premiere of the soon-to-be-iconic "Potato Man" anthem.

Nani recaps the band’s electric setlist, spanning their entire discography—from the punchy angst of “Swing, Swing” to the stadium-sized emotion of “It Ends Tonight.” The band’s chemistry? Flawless. After decades of playing together, their cohesion on stage is undeniable, and front man Tyson Ritter is in peak form—charismatic, chaotic, and charming as ever. From unexpected ad-lib interludes to rousing crowd engagement, Ritter proves he’s still one of emo’s most magnetic performers.

Of course, no Emo Hour is complete without the signature closing segment: Emo Lyrics of the Day. This week, both hosts pick lines from The All-American Rejects that capture the raw, vulnerable heart of the show.

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