On a perfect summer evening, Bangor’s Maine Savings Amphitheatre became the epicenter of rock energy as +Live+ and Collective Soul delivered a memorable night alongside special guests Our Lady Peace and emerging talent Greylin James Rue.
Opener: Greylin James Rue
Emerging talent Greylin James Rue began her performance with an intriguing, unnamed track that immediately drew the audience into her world of indie-infused rock and folk. Her distinct voice and poetic lyrics resonated strongly, setting a reflective yet captivating tone. She then transitioned smoothly into the introspective “It Gets Bad,” followed by the uplifting melodies of “Happy,” quickly establishing her musical range. With “Steve’s House,” Rue painted a vivid narrative, captivating the audience through poignant storytelling. Closing her set with the evocative “Birth of Venus,” she left a lasting impression, showcasing remarkable maturity and vocal prowess that hinted at a promising future ahead.
Our Lady Peace Brings Nostalgia
Canadian alternative rock legends Our Lady Peace took the stage next, sparking nostalgia and excitement with Raine Maida’s compelling stage presence and distinctive vocal style. Supported by Duncan Coutts on bass, Steve Mazur on guitar, and Jason Pierce behind the drums, the band effortlessly navigated beloved classics like “Superman’s Dead” and the poignant “Clumsy.” The soaring choruses of “Somewhere Out There” resonated emotionally, while their spirited closer, “Starseed,” united fans in an enthusiastic sing-along, capturing the enduring appeal of their sound.
Collective Soul’s Captivating Performance
When Collective Soul stepped onto the stage, the energy shifted into high gear. With the Roland brothers—Ed’s charismatic vocals and Dean’s rhythmic precision—at the forefront, the band’s chemistry was unmistakable. Opening with the heartfelt “Mother’s Love,” they immediately engaged the audience, who quickly responded to their magnetic stage presence.
As they powered through their expansive setlist, each song felt like a crowd favorite. The band ignited the audience with the dynamic punch of “Heavy” and kept spirits high with the instantly recognizable riffs of “Shine,” prompting a massive sing-along. Guitarist Jesse Triplett’s sharp solos and drummer Johnny Rabb’s rhythmic mastery provided impressive musical depth, while bassist Will Turpin anchored the groove with unwavering precision.
Highlights included stirring renditions of “Precious Declaration” and the reflective beauty of “The World I Know,” which had fans swaying arm-in-arm. The energy soared with the rhythmic intensity of “Gel” and continued through “Where the River Flows,” keeping the crowd locked in for every beat. Collective Soul’s set climaxed with the evocative anthem “Run,” leaving the audience on an emotional high and reinforcing their reputation as one of the most compelling live bands of their generation.
+Live+ Offers a Powerful Finale
Headlining the evening, +Live+ took the stage with captivating intensity and raw emotion. Frontman Ed Kowalczyk’s voice was strikingly powerful, commanding attention from the very first note of “Pain Lies on the Riverside.” With the original lineup of Patrick Dahlheimer (bass), Chad Gracey (drums), and Chad Taylor (guitars) accompanying him, the chemistry between band members was palpable, demonstrating the lasting bond that has propelled their decades-long career.
Their set was a carefully crafted journey through emotional highs and reflective moments, with iconic hits like “Selling the Drama” and “All Over You” eliciting passionate responses from the crowd. Kowalczyk’s vocal delivery on the deeply personal “Iris” and the hypnotic groove of “Lakini’s Juice” showcased the band’s versatility, seamlessly blending introspection with energetic rock riffs.
Fans were treated to the intriguingly mysterious track “T.B.D.,” adding anticipation for potential new music. Meanwhile, the emotional peaks of “The Dolphin’s Cry” and the infectious rhythm of “Shit Towne” highlighted the depth and range of +Live+’s catalog. Throughout their performance, the band skillfully balanced musical precision with emotional authenticity, proving why they remain revered in the alternative rock landscape.
Their encore began with the reflective beauty of “Turn My Head,” transitioning smoothly into the explosive, audience-driven “I Alone,” during which Kowalczyk introduced each band member, amplifying the sense of community within the amphitheatre. Closing the night was their signature anthem “Lightning Crashes,” a powerful crescendo of sound and feeling that had the audience singing in unison, hands raised high. The emotional intensity of that finale lingered long after the final note faded, encapsulating the power of +Live+ as performers who connect profoundly with their fans.
From Greylin James Rue’s promising talent to Our Lady Peace’s nostalgic power, Collective Soul’s timeless rock hits, and +Live+’s emotionally charged performance, this concert was a celebration of rock music’s enduring legacy. Each artist brought something unique, yet collectively, they created an experience that transcended generations. Fans left the venue energized, moved, and undoubtedly carrying lasting memories of a remarkable night in Bangor.
