In support of their new album, Screamer, Third Eye Blind set out on tour with support from electro-pop group, Smallpools. On November 21st, the band stopped in Grand Rapids, Michigan about halfway through its 17-date tour to say a quick hello. Opening with a tune from its 1997 hit self-titled album, the band had fans geared up for a night of riffs and vocals from the group’s leader, Stephan Jenkins. Off to a strong start, the 5-piece group followed the opener with one of its biggest hits, “Never Let You Go,” in which the crowd warmed up its singing chops.
About halfway through their set, Third Eye Blind performed their anthemic hit, “The Kids Are Coming (To Take You Down),” a song that exudes hope and strength towards the younger generation. Continuing with its new tunes and new sounds, the ensemble rocked out to its pop-rock fusion bop, “Ways”. At this point in the night, the crowd was riled up and the band was in full rock mode. Feeding off of the fan’s energy, the band transitioned into one of its most popular hits “Jumper,” which had the whole room in awe. The emotional effects of the song lingered as the night came to a close.
The audience roared for more, an encore was destined to happen. There were two songs that everyone in the room were waiting to hear. As the band returned to the stage, everyone knew what to expect. Performing their biggest song, “Semi-Charmed Life,” which grew in popularity in the late 90’s, the band and show attendees felt satisfied with their experience. Fans, old and young, sang along with the catchy pop chorus which proclaims the need for something more. Ending the night with glory, the chords and melody for “How’s It Going to Be” echoed throughout the venue. The notorious break up song was shouted from the mouths of those lining the barricade. For them, the end of the night came too quickly. People, old and young, began their trek back to their cars when I overheard a fan proclaim, “I wish we could start this night all over again.”
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Smallpools
Third Eye Blind
By: Veronica Anderson | Exclusively for @Music, Why Not!
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