Collective Soul
August 29, 2023
Commodore Ballroom, Vancouver, BC
Canadian Beats Passport
When I heard that Collective Soul were going to be playing the Commodore two nights in a row, I knew I had to be there for both shows, definitely turned out to be one of the best choices I’ve made in a long time.
Collective Soul is a real-deal rock and roll band with a major catalogue of hits and a live show that makes me remember exactly why I love going to concerts so much. Ed Roland, the lead singer, came out in his bright blue blazer and white pants while sporting a pair of sunglasses and a walking cane, he made his way to the mic and threw the cane down, bam the show was off with a kick.
These guys are tight, Ed, his brother Dean, and bass player Will, have been playing together since ’92, and Johnny on drums and Jesse on lead guitar have been a part of the group since 2012 and 2014 respectively, the connection and the comradery were very apparent.
Ed is the frontman and he’s fantastic at his job, he’s got a killer voice and he genuinely knows how to work the stage, he’s just got the look and the moves to give off that rock and roll vibe. The whole show just felt so good and the jam-packed Commodore was full of serious energy, the room and the band combined with a great crowd always makes for a special night.
We basically got the greatest hits of Collective Soul to sing along to, a couple of surprisingly good new album tracks, and a blow-the-roof-off cover of R.E.M’s The One I Love, seriously wow!
Run was the closer, and the crowd sang every word.
I’m disappointed that I’d missed them at the Commodore and other local venues up until now, but I’ve seen them live two nights in a row and I’m hooked going forward. Go out and see bands like Collective Soul at local venues and support live music, we’re so fortunate to have the opportunity.
