25 Years of Noise Tour
Split Chain, Arm’s Length, Thursday, Silverstein
Split Chain opened the night, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening. With their unique blend of shoegaze, grunge, and metal, the band brought an electrifying energy to the stage. Their ability to merge different elements of sound into a cohesive and powerful performance left a strong impression on the audience. This show marked a significant milestone for the band, as it was their first-ever performance in the U.S. Despite having only been together for two years, Split Chain has already developed a distinct sound that sets them apart in the alternative music scene. Their set was an adrenaline-packed start, hyping the crowd and setting high expectations for the acts to follow.
Following Split Chain’s stellar performance, Arm’s Length took the stage. The Canadian emo band, known for their heartfelt lyrics and evocative soundscapes, delivered a deeply emotional set. They performed tracks from their debut album, Never Before Seen, Never Again Found, captivating the audience with their raw energy and vulnerability. Fans were also treated to songs from their EP, Everything’s Nice, showcasing the breadth of their discography. The highlight of their set was the live debut of a brand-new track, “Funny Faces,” which is scheduled for release next month. The song’s introspective lyrics and soaring melodies hinted at the band’s continued growth and evolution. Arm’s Length’s performance was a masterclass in connecting with an audience, leaving fans both new and old eager for more.
As the crowd’s anticipation grew, Thursday made their entrance, greeted by deafening cheers. As pioneers of the 2000s post-hardcore scene, Thursday’s influence on the genre is undeniable. Their performance was a powerful reminder of their legacy, blending nostalgia with fresh energy. The band’s setlist was a mix of classic hits that defined a generation and new material, including their latest single, “Taking Inventory of a Frozen Lake.” This song marked a major milestone for Thursday, as it was part of their first collection of new music in 13 years, released last year. The band’s performance was nothing short of explosive, with Geoff Rickly’s passionate vocals and the band’s dynamic instrumentation driving the crowd into a frenzy. Crowd-surfing and mosh pits became a staple of the night, especially during fan-favorite tracks, as the audience fed off the band’s energy and intensity.
Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived: Silverstein took the stage to thunderous applause. The band, celebrating 25 years of music, delivered a career-spanning set that highlighted their evolution while honoring their roots. They opened with a selection of their recent hits, showcasing their ability to stay relevant and innovative in a constantly changing music landscape. As the set progressed, the band delved into their earliest material, much to the delight of longtime fans. Between songs, visuals played on the screen, depicting the band’s journey from their humble beginnings to their current status as genre icons. This multimedia experience added an emotional layer to the performance, allowing fans to reflect on the band’s growth over the years.
The audience’s enthusiasm was palpable throughout Silverstein’s set. Lead singer Shane Told engaged the crowd, encouraging sing-alongs and creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration. Even during an acoustic rendition of “My Heroine,” the energy remained high, with fans passionately singing every word. The night reached its peak during the encore, when Silverstein returned to perform two iconic tracks: “Smashed Into Pieces” and “Bleeds No More.” These songs, staples of their early discography, brought the evening to a thrilling conclusion, leaving fans exhilarated and deeply satisfied.
From the fresh sounds of Split Chain to the emotive performance of Arm’s Length, the nostalgic intensity of Thursday, and the electrifying headlining set by Silverstein, the night was a celebration of music, connection, and the enduring power of live performance. It was an unforgettable experience for everyone in attendance, cementing this show as a highlight in the history of all four bands.
Photography by Wes Shepherd
