In this fine country, the hype surrounding the return of pop rock heroes Fall Out Boy has been catapulted to hysteria with the announcement of The All-American Rejects support. This excitement, in addition to the imminent release of their third album, When the World Comes Down, can also be felt at a Mexican restaurant in Dallas, Texas where guitarist and backing vocalist Mike Kennerty enjoys a late lunch.

Mike energetically enthuses how the tour came to fruition. “Fall Out Boy were planning on coming and they wanted to know if we wanted to come with them. [We] never say no to touring Australia – it’s one of our favourite places to come.” Having toured Australia previously including a string of headlining shows in 2006, The All-American Rejects have taken a giant hurdle, preparing to play at this country’s largest venues.

“We were playing really small club shows; it’s great to play at huge places for a lot more people. We couldn’t be more stoked.” Although they are certainly able to handle the upgraded capacity in the US. “We supported Bon Jovi on multiple nights so we feel like we can handle both, which is a rare opportunity.”

As for a favourite city on our shores, “that’s a tough one, every city was beautiful. I’m going to be diplomatic and say the whole country. One of the things we love about the country is that it’s not too dissimilar. It’s kinda nice that we can relate to people a little more. I’d love to take in as much as possible.”

Fall Out Boy and The All-American Rejects are no strangers in the tour van. The partnership between these bands was established through a previous full-scale American tour. “It was the height of both records for both of us; it was a great time.” With this collaboration, what can we expect they will bring to the stage? “We are both high energy bands who like to bring solid rock shows. We feel it and put our hearts into it…at the end, the people will be rocking out just as hard.”

There is sense of thrill as they are able to pack their bags and head for the warm climate opposed from the icy conditions they are currently enduring. After Australia it’s off to Europe before returning to their homeland for a spring tour.

Working with esteemed American producer Eric Valentine for the first time awakened a new creative process. “Eric works solo and is very meticulous. He loves working to develop a song and melody; it really feels like we are working on a piece of art.” As a result, the “most varied and interesting” All American Rejects album will hit the shelves. This production will likely give the band another taste of the Top 100 Australian success, as experienced by three of their last singles. “I didn’t know we were doing so well; it’s an amazing feeling. I hope we get over there and play before people forget.”

As for plans of another tour in support of the upcoming album, it may not be something to pencil in just yet. “Right now this is the only thing planned so far. That would be a dream to do a full headlining tour.” They will play tracks of the new record which has proved to be the – œloudest and softest’ music to date. “When recording we listen to less music. It helps in the writing process. We were less inspired by other music and more by situations…where we were at that moment.”

This is certainly a band that sticks to their Oklahoma roots; appreciating their fans and not taking the exit to a rock and roll lifestyle. “We see other bands caught up in stardom. We are the same dudes as we always were and will always be.” Focused on the fans, meeting the people who support their music is at the top of their priorities. “It’s all about meeting fans. We appreciate every single person. We acknowledge that we’d be nothing without them.”

On a departing note, Mike effusively states, “Thanks for supporting us, we can’t wait to get over there.” So buckle down and move along to watch The All-American Rejects dominate the Australian stages. Who knows, the world may come down.

The All-American Rejects tour nationally supporting Fall Out Boy on the following dates.

Sunday 15 February – Challenge Stadium, Perth
Tuesday 17 February – Adelaide Entertainment Centre
Wednesday 18 February – Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne
Friday 20 February – Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Saturday 21 February – Acer Arena, Sydney

When The World Comes Down is out now through Universal