Concert Review: Greta Van Fleet
On my 23rd birthday, I had the extraordinary privilege of witnessing Greta Van Fleet's performance at TD Garden in Boston, a band that holds a special place in my heart. The anticipation was palpable as I joined the sea of passionate fans, many of whom were dressed in colorful, shiny costumes reminiscent of the band's iconic style. Greta Van Fleet has indisputably cemented their status as one of the most sought-after live rock acts of this generation, having sold over one million tickets worldwide and playing more than 250 sold-out shows across five continents. With their latest album, Starcatcher, the quartet aimed to capture the raw energy and immediacy of their live performances, a testament to their unwavering dedication to their craft. People from all corners converged to witness this incredible spectacle, and there was no doubt why—Greta Van Fleet is simply mesmerizing to watch live.
As the concert kicked off, the anticipation was palpable, and I couldn't help but wonder how Greta Van Fleet would elevate their performance for these larger arena crowds. It didn't take long to see that they had upped their game with a brand-new stage setup and a generous dose of pyrotechnics, adding a touch of spectacle to their signature style. The band's undeniable talent remained as impressive as ever, with Josh Kiszka showcasing his powerhouse vocal range, Jake Kiszka delivering scorching guitar solos, Sam Kiszka demonstrating his mastery of bass and piano, and Daniel Wagner offering a reinvented take on his signature drum solos. What hasn't changed is their willingness to dive deep into their setlist and let the jams flow – for instance, the first three songs alone took a whopping 25 minutes to perform, a testament to their commitment to creating unforgettable live experiences. And when it comes to extending songs, "Lover Leaver Taker Believer" has always been a fan favorite, and this time, it appeared earlier in the set, much to the audience's delight. While some fans may have nostalgia for the more intimate settings of smaller venues, the electrifying energy and spectacle of the elevated show at the larger arena left everyone in awe and thoroughly entertained.
One of the standout moments was undoubtedly the intimate acoustic set on the B-stage. This addition to their show was a refreshing surprise, featuring three soulful tracks: a captivating cover of "Unchained Melody," a heartfelt rendition of "Waited All Your Life," and the timeless favorite, "Black Smoke Rising." This acoustic interlude created a magical connection between the band and the audience, making the massive arena feel like an intimate gathering. The boys showcased not only their musical prowess but also their determination to maintain a one-on-one type of interaction with the fans. It's no small feat to entertain a crowd of this size, but Greta Van Fleet effortlessly had everyone feeling more in tune with their performance, making it a night to remember.
Another special moment of the show is during Greta’s song, “Light My Love.” This song, which has become a staple of their shows after gaining traction on TikTok, beautifully articulates a love that transcends boundaries and speaks to the hearts of many. In light of recent news about Josh Kiszka's membership within the LGBTQIA+ community, this moment carried even more significance. Throughout the arena, fans illuminated the space with colored lights and raised pride flags high, not only showing their unwavering support for Josh but also sending a powerful message of unity and acceptance. It was a testament to the band's ability to create a safe and inclusive environment where fans can be their truest selves. Greta Van Fleet's music is all about love, acceptance, and the power of community, leaving a lasting impression that will resonate with all who were fortunate enough to be there. It is always quite a special moment to experience at their shows.
The Starcatcher tour is yet another opportunity for the band to showcase their unique star power quality. Their unmatched musical talents, witty quips, and old-school charm continue to propel them to incredible heights in their career. Throughout the evening, it was evident how deeply connected they are with their fans, going above and beyond to create a safe space for exploring the power of love in all its forms. The Starcatcher tour represents Greta Van Fleet at their most elevated level yet, and it's no mystery how they've reached their current status. With each performance, they solidify their place in rock history, leaving the audience eagerly anticipating what incredible heights they'll reach next.
You won’t want to miss catching Greta Van Fleet on the Starcatcher tour. View all the starstudded moments of their show at TD Garden in our latest gallery.
