The Golden 1 Center beamed brightly on Tuesday evening as Greta Van Fleet’s “Dreams In Gold Tour” came to a bittersweet close in Sacramento, California. With the last remnants of golden hour dancing below the auspicious clouds, an array of concert goers filled the arena with the most beautiful energy.
Through dusk’s moody hues, nightfall welcomed the powerhouse opener Rival Sons. Performing several of their hit songs, such as “Do Your Worst” from their 2019 album Feral Roots, lead singer Jay Buchanan demanded the stage with his astounding vocal range and unbelievable stage presence. During the band’s performance of “Shooting Stars” from their 2019 album Feral Roots, the audience was aglow. One by one, cellphones began to light up the venue, like a bioluminescent sea. Drummer Michael Miley smoothly walked through the pit with cellphone in hand, documenting this dazzling moment and interacting with adoring fans at barricade. The mesmerizing white sparkle continued as Rival Sons prepared the audience for their awaited voyage.
As the glimmer diminished, a piratical and sail like banner billowed from above the stage, adorned with the golden signature symbols from Greta Van Fleet’s sophomore album, The Battle at Garden’s Gate. Masking the achromatic staging, the audience began to applaud in anticipation for the voyage to take flight. A steady rhythm of instrumentals introduced the impactful words from lead singer Josh Kiszka. Words of peace, love, and living life freely, which rang true with the captivated audience. As percussion began, harmonious vocals entranced the crowd, while flashes of white light displayed silhouettes of the concealed staging, instruments and musicians. Flickers of amber and red accompanied Josh’s soaring vocals and lead guitarist Jake Kiszka’s riffing, as the Frankenmuth, Michigan natives took the stage, playing “Built by Nations” from their 2021 album, The Battle at Garden’s Gate.
The black and gold banner elegantly rippled downwards, revealing the stage. The audience cheered wildly and sang along to each lyric. Adorned in gilded and rhinestone embellishments, Josh took a moment to thank concert goers in attendance. Expressing his appreciation for everyone joining them throughout this tour and coming together to celebrate their tour’s grand finale. Performing hit after hit, including four new songs, it was evident that this band of brothers and childhood friends were rocking Sacramento to its core. Pyrotechnics, dragonfire flames, and rainbow illumination lit up each song. From “Heat Above” to “The Weight of Dreams” from their 2021 album, The Battle at Garden’s Gate, they had the audience roaring. The impeccable synergy that all four band members share (Josh Kiszka, Jake Kiszka, Sam Kiszka, and Daniel Wagner) is refreshing to say the least. Combined with their phenomenal skills and playful showmanship, they truly have an unparalleled energy all their own.
Once each band member left the stage, the audience chanted for an encore. After a quick wardrobe change, the band took to the stage once more, performing “That’s Alright” from Elvis Presley’s 1956 album Rock n’ Roll and “Highway Tune” from their 2017 album, From The Fires. Engaging with the audience, Josh welcomed festive boas and decorated hats from the fans. He, Sam, and Daniel continued performing with their newly added flair. While Jake hammered away on the electric guitar, Josh, Sam, and Danny took shots with concert goers at barricade.
As the final notes of “Highway Tune” rang, a secondary banner rhythmically glided downwards, revealing the title Starcatcher. A truly tremendous and celebratory evening, filled with endless revelry, as the band ascended to the stars as one with the audience.
Review and photos by Andrea Garman @themusiclens.
Keep up with Greta Van Fleet and Rival Sons:
Greta Van Fleet – Website / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter
Rival Sons – Website / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter
