Manchester Orchestra: The Stuffing XIV: 10th Anniversary Album Play of Cope Tour – South Side Ballroom, Dallas, TX

November 19, 2024 – I had the opportunity to see three bands play phenomenal sets. I went in as a fan of Manchester Orchestra and left a fan of Lunar Vacation and Thrice. I had heard some tunes from Thrice in the past but sometimes I need convincing via live performance to become a fan. Lunar Vacation was one of the most impressive opening acts I have seen in quite some time. Their chill energy and incredible musicianship won me over majorly.

I had a similar experience to Courtney who covered this tour in Las Vegas on the 16th a few days before. These guys had incredible production all around from sound to lighting to actual performances. One thing that had me mesmerized was the crowd. I have never seen such a diverse set of concertgoers at a show before. I saw people old and young, different ethnic backgrounds, gays and straights, indie-girly pops and metalheads – it was truly one of the most fascinating things I have ever seen. I think it is incredible to see musicians that can bring together people from all walks of life in the name of music.

Thrice played their entire 2009 album “Beggars” as an opening to Manchester Orchestra and wow! I was thoroughly impressed with the vocals from lead singer Dustin Kensrue and the entire band as they delivered one of the coolest sets I’ve seen in a while. This band has been putting out music since 2001 and after listening to a ton of their work I would say this is a band not to be slept on.

Manchester Orchestra came to play their hearts out. I loved their light production because it went well with the mood of each track they played from their 2014 album “Cope.” The moment I was looking forward to most was Manchester Orchestra playing “The Maze” which is one of my all-time favorite songs. They played a snippet of “I Know How to Speak” before that made my little indie heart melt. This was a very well-thought-out tour that gave little pieces of genre-blending that I appreciate.

While they might be about done with this tour, be sure to keep an eye out for future tour dates for Lunar Vacation, Thrice and Manchester Orchestra. Each band has a special quality in their live performance that will make just about anyone a fan.

PHOTO CREDIT: Live photos by Jessa Fagan for ZrockR Magazine – (c) 2024 – All Rights Reserved.