We never seem to be disappointed by the concerts at the HOB.  This show was especially long.   3 bands opened for Rise Against, who didn't go onstage till almost 11PM.   But it was certainly worth the wait. 
Thrice was absolutely amazing.  In fact their show was as good if not better than Rise Against.    The two other bands were Alkaline Trio and Gaslight Anthem.  Both of these bands were good, but really not my style.

THRICE

I am a new fan of this band.  When you listen to their recordings they sound like a typical punk band, just a bit harder than a Rise Against CD.  Live, yo can really hear the metal influence.  They have a decidedly hardcore vibe, but at the same time mix in keyboards synths adding an almost dream like quality to some of their tracks.   Very impressive was the fact that both guitarists, simultaneously played keyboards, it was quite amazing to watch.    This band has boat loads of talent.   Mark liked them so much, that he bought their latest CD on the spot. 

Alchemy Index is a 4 part concept CD-we purchased Air and Water.  This CD is nothing like the live show, it's arty and dreamlike and very much not my speed.  However, the very next morning after the concert I downloaded two of their earlier works.  And wow, what an incredible band this is.   Like I said, I am a new-completely converted fan.


RISE AGAINST

They were just raw and in your face.   Their already lightening speed tracks seemed to be even faster.  What was really cool was that the audience seemed to know every single lyric to every song.   Tim Mcllrath was a master at setting the audience on fire.  He is quite the showman.   He commented that his voice was sub-par, but it was hardly noticeable.  He belted out verse after verse without missing a beat.  

Again, I have to comment on two points, the energy and sound quality.   I was taken aback by how strong they both were.   Clearly this band is meant to be heard live.  We find that so often of every band we see.   The studio recordings are just so overproduced and shallow.   Live, this band brings it all together-so tight and well rehearsed and as I mentioned the energy was probably more than I have seen at any show.    As far as how they sounded-stunning.   It's almost a sin to have to listen to a studio recording.  Live you can hear the roar of every instrument in your face demanding that you "rise against".