Chicago’s own Alkaline Trio matched Lagwagon and perhaps even superseded them with choice of walk-on music. This time it was a tune that had stage and security personnel, the fans, and yes even us photographer singing in hearty unison. The tune which provoked this sunshiny moment in the darkness of just past the gloaming? One of the biggest hits by the legends (and Riot Fest alums) from just 85 miles west-northwest past Chicago. Of course the tune was “Surrender” by Cheap Trick. It was glorious.
Once on stage Alkaline Trio blazed through a set which included “Time to Waste,” “Calling all Skeletons,” “Sadie,” “Fatally Yours,” “Bleeder,” and “Radio.”
Matt Skiba, Dan Andriano and Derek Grant also had a couple of dedications to gift.
“How about a love song? How about a love song for Chicago? Tonight. Another one” proposed guitarist/vocalist Skiba as he introduced “Every Thugs Needs a Lady,” on which bassist/vocalist Andriano took the lead vocals. The conclusion of the song led to this delightful (partial) exchange between Skiba and Andriano as drummer Derek Grant sat back took it in:
Skiba “That, that was a 9 and a half.”
Andriano “Thanks buddy… see I’m getting better.”
Skiba: “I would have given you a ten I just don’t want you getting cocky on me right?”
Andriano: “I can’t be reading my clippings” …”…I get a little confidence boost though with that, thank you Matt”
Skiba: “…No problem bro.”
This was immediately followed by Skiba declaring “This song’s for the Descendents, it’s called “Mercy Me.”
Alkaline Trio capped an enjoyable day 1 for Dying Scene correspondents.