Greta Van Fleet rocked Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse with an unforgettable performance this past Saturday (09.30.23). It seems like less time has passed (chalk it up to COVID?) since GVF’s then-publicist e-mailed CleveRock staff several times asking for a story on the band’s upcoming show at Grog Shop in 2017.
The pitch read, “These guys are breathing new life into real, authentic rock’n’roll, plus, their lyrics are reminiscent of the ‘peace, love and unity’ that changed a generation in the 60s.”
The pitch continued to talk about the band’s success with the single “Highway Tune,” which landed at #1 on WMMS. In the 70s and 80s this would have been a stunning accomplishment, but does anybody really pay attention to the limited music during off hours when the station isn’t littered with garbage talk shows? (We’re looking at you, Alan Cox and Rover!)
Intriguing. CleveRock staff attended the show and begged the question, “What the hell are these kids doing at The Grog Shop?” (Great venue, just a wee bit small for their talent!) The next time they came through town, the guys played The Agora and made fans camp out for tickets like the good old days before Ticketmaster (.com) ruined fans’ fair chances of obtaining tickets. A bigger stage, indeed. Big enough? Not hardly. Let’s give Jacobs Pavilion a shot! Like a growing kid trying on outfits for back-to-school, finding a big enough size is a challenge. Onward to Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse!
The foursome, composed of three brothers (vocalist Josh Kiszka, guitarist Jake Kiszka, bassist Sam Kiszka) and drummer & friend Danny Wagner have defied the odds of making it out of a small market and prove that all “nice guys” don’t finish last.
One of the most often things said about the Frankenmuth, Michigan natives is that they sound like Led Zeppelin. Compliment? Knock? It’s all in the ear of the listener. But based on the fact that over 15,000 attended their tour closer in Cleveland and the band has quickly climbed from 400-capacity clubs to arenas, compliment seems to be the general consensus. Greta Van Fleet proved why they are one of the hottest acts in rock music today.
As the house lights dimmed, the anticipation from the crowd bubbled up and eventually erupted into a frenzy of cheers. The energy in the air could be felt as fans eagerly awaited the moment Greta Van Fleet would take the stage. As the colossal curtain dropped, the crowd was hooked, singing along to every word and cheering with unwavering enthusiasm. The sheer joy and passion emanating from the audience was infectious, creating a sense of camaraderie and unity among everyone in attendance. It was a sight to behold, witnessing thousands of people coming together to celebrate the power of music.
Greta Van Fleet’s setlist was an absolute powerhouse of rock and roll. It leaned heavily on the July 2023 release, ‘Starcatcher’ which tallied half of the songs performed on this Fall evening. Kicking things off with ‘Starcatcher’ tune “The Falling Sky” — it wasn’t long after that Mr. Kiszka (Jake, to be specific) performed a blistering guitar solo. Guitar solos aren’t everyone’s thing; but even for those who prefer quick-hitters with consistent vocals, one would be hard-pressed not to be thoroughly impressed.
Nearing the middle of the set, the aforementioned Grammy-nominated #1 hit “Highway Tune” led into a killer drum solo from Wagner. While he may not be Neil Peart or Carter Beauford, it’s hard to deny Danny Boy’s skills behind the kit!
At the halfway point, GVF made their way to the B-stage (located on the other end of the arena floor) and they played a small acoustic set that included a version of their song “Black Smoke Rising”. (Josh Kiszka) playfully mounted a (hopefully ready and willing) security guard’s shoulders and passed out beautiful white flowers to the audience. Do band members even know how much these gestures mean to fans? Most of the flower recipients will cherish these moments for life! It’s the little things that become big things…
Greta Van Fleet’s performance was nothing short of impressive. Their musicianship was fully displayed as they flawlessly executed every song with precision and skill. The chemistry onstage was undeniable. One might even rate their bond as 75% brotherly.
The brothers & fourth wheel returned to the main stage for a few more tunes, including set closer “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)” before being summoned back by ruckus applause for a three-song encore that started with the classic George Gershwin tune “Rhapsody in Blue” and ended with the appropriately titled “Farewell for Now.”
The visual aspect of their performance is not to be overlooked! The lights and production value added a whole new dimension to the concert experience. From the moment the first spotlight hit the stage, the dazzling display of lights that danced and pulsed with the music was mesmerizing. The vibrant colors, clever lighting effects, and pyrotechnics created a captivating atmosphere that perfectly complemented the band’s music. The production team behind the show deserves a round of applause, too. (Stand up and take a bow, folks!)
Despite the great show, the jury is still out on Greta Van Fleet’s future. Music fans are fickle and loyalty is on its deathbed. It’s possible that they reign in at ROMOFIHO for years to come on their upcoming tours, or that they descend back to Jacobs Pavilion…then The Agora…and eventually land back at Grog Shop. No matter where GVF plays, one thing is for certain: the passion and energy will be there!
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