EastScene

On Thursday, June 18, 2009, Rise Against was gracious enough to bestow Montreal with yet another fantastic show. Despite the weather conditions, fans alike hurried to Parc Jean Drapeau to get as close as they can to the barrier prior to the show.

First band to open up for them were The Riverboat Gamblers, a new band on the rise. Obviously of the punk rock genre, they also mix things up with a slight hint of pop; resulting in the their music being very catchy. In between songs, the band would mention how it was truly amazing that they were touring with Rancid, a band they used to cover.

Following The Riverboat Gamblers were their idols in the flesh –Rancid. Possessing amazing tone and synchronization, one can really hear the unison between the bandmates: always on time and never missing a beat. Although this reveals more about their comfort with each other onstage, Rancid was their punk self as usual. They did not disappoint.

Waiting for Rise Against to come take the stage was unbearable yet exciting for all the anxious fans. The energy was palpable. One could truly feel everyone’s heart beating in rhythm. Then, the band came out and everyone just exploded by screaming, pushing and jumping –an instant moshpit was created. Having played an 18-song set, they did not disappoint. Although one could argue otherwise considering Rise Against did not play their hit “Swing Life Away”, it is easy to conclude that it wasn’t because the band did not care yet it is far from the truth. In fact, they wanted to give their audience a little bit more by treating them with an old song –”Everchanging– acoustically, off of their first album “The Unraveling”. From “Collapse” to “Audience Of One” to a few acoustic songs towards the end, the band showed energy beyond the stage which they emanated to their eager and receptive fans. As the band liked to put it, their Montreal fanbase was “hardcore”. However, it’s easy to deduce why they are that way: they have a band they look up to who is equally hardcore and amazing.
Set List:
Collapse
State of the Union
Re-Education through labour
Paper Wings
Long Forgotten Songs
Good left Undone
Chamber of the Cartidge
Drones
The Dirt Whispered
Audience of one
Blood to Bleed Savior Survive
Broken English
Prayer of the Refugee
Everchanging (acoustic)
Hero of War (acoustic)
Dancing for rain (piano intro)
Give it All
Ready to fall