Photos and Review by: Robert McDonald
Galleries: Counting Crows, Dashboard Confessional
The Leader Bank Pavilion was buzzing with anticipation, nostalgia, and high energy last Saturday as two legendary bands, Dashboard Confessional and Counting Crows, took to the stage. Fans eagerly awaited an unforgettable night of music and emotionally stirring performances.
The open-air setup of the Leader Bank Pavilion, coupled with a humid New England summer night, forged a mesmerizing scene. Music seemed to waltz through the air, reaching every corner of the venue, while the cool sea breeze added an enchanting element to the already vibrant atmosphere.
Introduced by none other than Counting Crows’, Adam Duritz, Dashboard Confessional set the tone with their emotionally charged performance. Frontman Chris Carrabba’s powerful vocals echoed through the venue, turning each song into a personal, emotional confession. Having been away from his family since the start of the tour, Carrabba’s was visibly energized by the presence of his family, who were in attendance for the show.
The crowd connected deeply with hits like “Stolen” and “Screaming Infidelities,” infusing the night with a wave of heartfelt emotions. A particularly moving moment was the performance of “Vindicated” by Dashboard Confessional. The potent lyrics and Carrabba’s passionate delivery created a shared experience that reminded everyone of the transformative power of music.
As the headliners, Counting Crows, took to the stage, the crowd roared in excitement. Journeying through their extensive discography, the band delivered a stellar performance, striking a perfect balance between classic favorites and lesser-known gems. The night kicked off with the mesmerizing and poetic song, “Mrs. Potter’s Lullaby”, weaving a tapestry of vivid imagery and emotional depth, drawing the crowd into its dreamlike world.
Two songs later was the performance of their iconic hit “Mr. Jones.” The audience erupted in cheers as the opening chords filled the air, singing along with fervor and nostalgia. The band also treated fans to deep cuts like “A Long December” and “Butterfly in Reverse,” demonstrating their remarkable storytelling abilities and lyrical prowess. The night also included several covers including “Mercy,” “Blues Run the Game,” and as part of the encore, Dashboard Confessional joined the band on stage to cover their own, “So Long, So Long”.
In summary, the Dashboard Confessional and Counting Crows concert at the Leader Bank Pavilion on July 15, 2023, was an absolute triumph! Both bands showcased their exceptional talents, delivering performances that were both captivating and emotionally resonant. The evening was a perfect fusion of high-energy hits and heartfelt ballads, leaving fans on a euphoric high.