The Riverside Municipal Auditorium played host to a dynamic night of rock music on November 12, as Thrice and Manchester Orchestra brought their tour to Riverside, California. Both bands have built a reputation for blending emotional depth with powerful live performances, and their joint show lived up to the hype, delivering an evening of compelling music and raw energy.

Kicking off the night was Lunar Vacation, a relatively new band that quickly established themselves as a standout with their breezy yet dynamic indie-rock sound. The Georgia-based quartet, known for their dreamy melodies and tight rhythm section, provided a perfect warm-up for the crowd, easing them into the night with their laid-back vibe and impressive musicianship.

Following Lunar Vacation’s dreamy indie-pop set, Manchester Orchestra took the stage with their signature blend of emotionally charged rock and atmospheric soundscapes. Frontman Andy Hull, with his gravelly yet vulnerable voice, played through their album ‘Cope’ with tracks like “Bed Head” to fan favorites like “The Maze” The band’s ability to shift from quiet, introspective moments to explosive choruses was a highlight of the set. Songs like “All That I Really Wanted” and “See It Again” showcased Manchester Orchestra’s emotional range, with Hull’s powerful voice connecting deeply with the audience. The band's dynamic performances, bolstered by tight instrumentation and atmospheric arrangements, kept the energy flowing throughout.

By the time Thrice hit the stage, the Riverside Municipal Auditorium was fully charged, and the California quartet didn’t waste any time bringing the energy. Opening with their own rendition of "Mad World" from Tears for Fears, Thrice delivered a performance that was heavy on intensity and musical complexity. Thrice's primary set consisted of them playing their 2009 album Beggars in its entirety, marking a memorable moment for longtime fans. From the opening notes of “All the World Is Mad” to the closing chords of “Beggars,” the band took the crowd on a journey through one of their most beloved records.

The album’s mix of atmospheric rock, post-hardcore aggression, and introspective lyrics was a perfect fit for the live setting, and Thrice’s performance did justice to the intricate layers of the album. Songs like “Circles” and “In Exile” highlighted the band’s ability to balance heaviness with melody, while tracks like “The Weight” and “Beggars” brought out their more vulnerable, emotional side. Throughout the performance, the band's musicianship was on full display, with each member, from guitarist Teppei Teranishi to drummer Riley Breckenridge, delivering tight and precise performances. Of course, they couldn't end the night without playing a few favorites like "Black Honey" and "Beyond the Pines."

The night at the Riverside Municipal Auditorium was a perfect example of how different styles of rock can come together to create an unforgettable concert experience. Lunar Vacation opened the night with their dreamy, indie-pop sound, setting a laid-back tone before Manchester Orchestra took the crowd on an emotional journey with their atmospheric rock. Thrice closed out the night with a heavy, intense performance that gave fans a full, front-to-back experience of one of their most iconic albums.

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