This past Tuesday, Alkaline Trio and Rise Against took the stage at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City, delivering a night filled with punk energy and powerful performances.
Opening the show was Thrice, a band well-known in the alternative scene. While many were eager to hear them live, their set was a bit underwhelming. Their songs often blended into each other, with heavy, loud riffs and intense screaming, lacking the vocal variety that some fans of the genre might expect. Despite the band’s efforts, their style felt repetitive, and the set didn’t quite resonate with everyone.
Alkaline Trio, on the other hand, electrified the crowd with their seasoned performance. With a strong fanbase in attendance, it was clear many were there specifically for them. Their set was packed with crowd favorites, showcasing their blend of melodic punk with darker undertones. The audience responded enthusiastically, and it even seemed like they wanted an encore, which is uncommon for a band playing mid-show. Alkaline Trio proved why they’ve had such staying power in the punk scene, with their tight musicianship and engaging stage presence.
Rise Against closed the night with an intense set. Known for their blend of politically charged lyrics and a mix of singing and screaming, they brought a hardcore punk vibe to the stage. The lead singer’s dynamic voice, transitioning between melodic and raw, complemented their energetic sound. While some of the crowd may have been less familiar with their full discography, their long encore—featuring two acoustic tracks followed by four hard-hitting songs—left a lasting impression. The encore was a standout moment, adding variety and depth to their set. Though their style might have been a bit too hardcore for some, there was no denying the band’s energy and commitment.
Overall, it was a night of high-energy performances, with each band bringing something different to the table. Alkaline Trio stood out as a highlight, while Rise Against’s extended encore added a memorable end to the show.
I liked Alkaline Trio A LOT in College. I wasn’t floored when I saw this at this show. There were maybe 5 songs I could sing along with and the set was short. I did enjoy people watching and seeing the young teens push eachother around in the pit like it was there job. It’s funny (to me) that some take it so serious -like maybe they practice their dance moves at home….I guess it’s a “please look at me” situation. But i’ve been there too just not as dumb looking.