The Goo Goo Dolls and special guests Fitz and the Tantrums graced the stage of the Maine Savings Amphitheater on September 29th, 2023, wrapping up the concert season with a bang. As autumn’s brisk breeze began to settle over Bangor, Maine, thousands gathered in anticipation, eager for the experience that was about to unfold.
The atmosphere was electric as Fitz and the Tantrums took the stage, starting the evening off with their toe-tapping track “Sway.” As Michael Fitzpatrick and Noelle Scaggs’ voices intertwined, the audience was instantly drawn into their spell. From the infectious energy of “Heaven” and “OCD” to the soulful melody of “Good Intentions,” the audience was treated to a sublime blend of neo-soul and indie pop.
James King’s performance on the saxophone and flute was spellbinding, providing an unforgettable backbone to the show. “Out of My League” and “Livin’ for the Weekend” had the crowd on their feet, dancing and singing along. Their closing numbers, “The Walker” and “HandClap,” echoed throughout the amphitheater, leaving the audience hungry for more.
But as dusk settled and the ambient lighting of the amphitheater took effect, the iconic notes of “Broadway” signaled the beginning of The Goo Goo Dolls’ performance. The unmistakable voice of John Rzeznik, combined with the rhythmic bass lines from Robby Takac, took the audience on a nostalgic journey, touching every emotion.
The Goo Goo Dolls, a band with a history spanning over three decades, showcased their range and depth with a setlist that included both classic hits and newer releases. Tracks like “Slide” and “Black Balloon” evoked waves of sentiment, as couples held each other close, swaying with the rhythm. “January Friend” and “Yeah, I Like You” rekindled memories of yesteryears for longtime fans.
Of course, no Goo Goo Dolls’ concert would be complete without the melancholic strains of “Iris,” which had the entire amphitheater singing in unison. The power and resonance of that moment, with every voice lifted, cemented the track’s legacy as an anthem for generations.
In between their tracks, Rzeznik took moments to connect with the audience, sharing snippets from their journey, the inspiration behind some of their hits, and expressing gratitude for the years of unwavering support. There was a sense of intimacy, even in such a vast space, a testament to the band’s ability to bridge the gap between performer and listener.
The Maine Savings Amphitheater, with its sprawling lawn and state-of-the-art acoustics, was the ideal venue for this grand finale. As the last show of the 2023 concert season, both bands pulled out all the stops, ensuring that every attendee left with cherished memories.
In conclusion, The Goo Goo Dolls, alongside Fitz and the Tantrums, delivered a concert that was both nostalgic and fresh, a perfect blend of old classics and new hits. As attendees made their way out, the hum of the melodies lingered in the air, a perfect adieu to a memorable concert season. Here’s hoping that 2024 brings more such memorable evenings to the Maine Savings Amphitheater.
