For anyone new to the Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert tradition, the haze filled foyer of the Bradley Center should have served as the perfect foreshadow of what was to come. Although the concert was scheduled to begin at 7:30, the concert actually began 10 minutes late. From the start, the crowd showed the love for the groups addicting melodies through almost non-stop applause. Playing hits such as Christmas Eve Sarajevo and Carmina Burana, the group entertained the audience with a variety of music genres. For much of the concert, TSO veteran Tony Gaynor guided the spectators through a seasonal narrative.
Although the famous TSO’s rock themed melodies were enough to grasp the attention of the enthusiastic audience, the groups light show left many people stunned. As a person who works in event production, I often found my jaw hanging down in amazement. Their light show is without a doubt the most elaborate and high-tech setup I have seen to date. Each year their lighting designers continue to amaze me. Although their setup is amazing, there were several songs where the audience abuse lights (really bright) were [for a lack of better term] “abused.” there were several occasions were I was left with dark spots in my eyes from all the bright lights.
Just when I thought the concert was over, lead guitarist Al Pitrelli announced to the audience, “we’re gonna blow the roof off this place.” Little did I know that what was about to ensue was a great montage of many of their best-known hits. Including songs such as, “Christmas Canon,” “Wizards in Winter” and “REQUIEM / THE FIFTH” the group nearly did “blow off the roof. ”
As the group said their final goodbyes and the lights turned off for [what we thought was] the final time, I will admit I was nearly to the door when I hear Al yell “hey guys, I realize it’s a school night but do you have a few minutes more to hang out?” I reclaimed my seat and listened to their pianist’s dual it out. I will admit I wasn’t too enthused about this part, however suddenly the entire band reappeared. The group finally called it a night after playing a second performance of “Christmas Eve Sarajevo.” I left the Bradley center 3 hours later feeling as well my time had been well spent. I love the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and the fun approach they take to their music. Apart from the small lighting annoyance issue, I found the entire performance to be nearly flawless and definitely one of the best concerts I have ever been to. It is for this reason why I award the Trans-Siberian Orchestra a 4/4!
OFFICIAL SCORE: 4/4
