On a chilly fall Tuesday night, South Side Ballroom in Dallas was the epicenter of a powerful and emotional musical experience as Manchester Orchestra and Thrice brought their co-headlining tour to town. The venue, a favorite among Dallas music fans for its industrial charm and excellent acoustics, was packed with an eager crowd spanning generations—a testament to the enduring appeal of both bands. From the moment the lights dimmed, it was clear this would be a night of catharsis, connection, and unforgettable performances.
With a lineup featuring two of alternative rock’s most influential acts, the night promised to be more than just a concert—it was a meeting of two distinct musical forces. Thrice, with their post-hardcore grit and experimental edge, and Manchester Orchestra, masters of introspective storytelling and lush soundscapes, offered a dynamic pairing that balanced raw energy with cinematic beauty.
The crowd was as diverse as the music itself: longtime fans who had followed these bands since the early 2000s mixed with younger listeners drawn in by the resurgence of guitar-driven rock. Conversations buzzed about the album milestones being celebrated (15 years for Thrice’s Beggars and 10 years for Manchester Orchestra’s COPE) and fans swapped stories of past shows, building an air of excitement that only intensified as the clock ticked closer to showtime.
The show began with an enchanting performance by Lunar Vacation, an indie rock outfit whose dreamy sound provided the perfect prelude to the night’s intensity. Hailing from Atlanta, the band exuded a warm, laid-back vibe that quickly drew in the early crowd. Their shimmering guitar tones and lush harmonies created an atmosphere of breezy nostalgia, with standout tracks like “Unlucky” and “Peddler” showcasing their knack for blending introspection with infectious melodies.
Lunar Vacation’s youthful energy and genuine stage presence made them a compelling addition to the lineup, setting a tone of anticipation and wonder for what was to come. As the final notes of their set faded, it was clear they had won over both longtime fans and new listeners alike, earning a wave of applause that signaled the crowd’s appreciation.
Thrice: A Thunderous Start
Thrice kicked off the co-headlining portion of the night with a set that struck a balance between their hard-hitting roots and the more experimental soundscapes of their recent material. Celebrating the 15th anniversary of their album Beggars, the band immediately set the tone for an immersive sonic experience. Dustin Kensrue's raspy vocals carried raw emotion, particularly during “In Exile” and “The Great Exchange.”
The rhythm section—powered by Eddie Breckenridge’s intricate basslines and Riley Breckenridge’s dynamic drumming—was flawless, creating an atmospheric intensity that reverberated through the crowd. Their ability to seamlessly transition between heavy riffs and delicate melodies showcased why Thrice remains a staple in the post-hardcore genre.
One highlight was “Red Telephone,” where the song’s buildup culminated in a cathartic eruption of sound, with the audience chanting in unison. Thrice’s set felt like a storm: controlled yet unrelenting, leaving the crowd buzzing for what was to come.
Manchester Orchestra: A Cinematic Crescendo
When Manchester Orchestra took the stage, the energy shifted to something deeper and more introspective. Starting with “Top Notch,” Andy Hull’s haunting voice filled the room with a sense of intimacy, even in a packed venue. Their setlist leaned heavily on their album COPE, blending cinematic arrangements with the band’s signature emotional weight.
Hull’s vocals were spellbinding, particularly during slower, gut-wrenching tracks like “All That I Really Wanted” and “Girl Harbor.” The interplay between Hull and lead guitarist Robert McDowell was mesmerizing, with layered guitars building crescendos that felt almost orchestral.
Toward the end of the set, the band delved into newer material, including “The Gold”, a fan-favorite from their 2017 album A Black Mile to the Surface and “Bed Head,” with Hull’s falsetto and the song’s infectious groove igniting the crowd. The lighting design added to the atmosphere, with soft hues and dramatic strobes perfectly synchronized to the music’s peaks and valleys.
A Night to Remember
Both bands brought their unique strengths to the stage, creating a dynamic evening of contrasts and cohesion. While Thrice offered unbridled energy and technical prowess, Manchester Orchestra provided a soul-stirring exploration of vulnerability and grandeur.
In a world where live music can sometimes feel fleeting, this night stood as a testament to the enduring power of authenticity. Both bands reminded the audience of the magic that happens when artists pour their hearts into their craft and invite listeners to do the same. Whether you came for the adrenaline of Thrice, the cinematic beauty of Manchester Orchestra, or both, the evening was a resounding success that left everyone craving more.
As the crowd spilled out into the cool Dallas night, the shared euphoria lingered—a collective acknowledgment that this was not just a show but an experience to be cherished. For fans of alternative rock and post-hardcore, it was a night to remember, and for anyone considering catching this tour on another stop, the message is clear: do not miss it.
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