Train Keeps A’Rollin – All Night Long
Three veteran touring acts shared the bill at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion on July 26, making for one of the stronger summer lineups I've photographed this year.
There were plenty of photographs to make that night, but some of the moments that stuck with me most had nothing to do with lighting cues or confetti cannons.
I've always enjoyed Barenaked Ladies' clever lyrics and rapid-fire wordplay, but I was curious whether that same energy would translate to a live performance. It absolutely does. Between the banter, unexpected musical turns, and sharp musicianship, the band delivered one of the most entertaining sets of the night. They rolled through favorites like "The Old Apartment," "Brian Wilson," and "Pinch Me," while also introducing the newer "Almost Ready."
One of the most visually interesting moments of the night came during the rhythm section feature built around "Mahna Mahna." Jim Creeggan on upright bass and Tyler Stewart on drums turned it into a showcase that was as much about the lighting as the musicianship. The combination of movement, color, and timing created one of the night's best photographic opportunities. The band's mashup of "Pink Pony Club," "TEXAS HOLD 'EM," "The Gambler," "HOT TO GO!," "Sometimes When We Touch," and "So Long, Farewell" showed the same playful spirit that has always been part of the band's identity. A few minutes later, Ed Robertson climbed onto the drum riser while Tyler Stewart stepped to center stage and launched into AC/DC's "Highway to Hell."
Train followed with a dramatic curtain drop before Pat Monahan immediately began covering every inch of the stage. I've photographed Train more times than I can count, and one thing that still amazes me is what happens during "If It's Love." Cell phones started flying toward the stage from every direction. Monahan caught them, snapped quick selfies, and somehow returned them to their owners. I stopped counting after twenty.
The guest appearances tied the evening together. Matt Nathanson joined Monahan for a cover of "Jack & Diane," while Ed Robertson returned later for a mashup of "Sweet Virginia" and "Take Me Home, Country Roads." Looking around the venue, it was hard to miss the number of fans wearing Train shirts, holding handmade signs, and singing every word. They knew exactly when the confetti cannons were coming and when the oversized beach balls would make their appearance.
Hours later, I was still catching myself singing those songs on the drive home.
TRAIN
Barenaked Ladies
Matt Nathanson
Train Pat Monahan Barenaked Ladies Matt Nathanson Freedom Mortgage Pavilion Bill Baumann
