Greta Van Fleet @ Royal Albert Hall

Greta Van Fleet delivered a performance of a lifetime on July 14, 2024. They finally got to play the famous Royal Albert Hall in London, UK. Boasting a setlist packed with fan favorites, including a few from the archives, they put on an unforgettable show.

Greta Van Fleet

Familiar orchestral music filled the hall as eager fans awaited the band to take the stage. The string music, weaving through a medley of songs off their latest album, Starcatcher, was a fitting prelude to the show. The dynamic foursome was met with a roaring crowd & kicked off the 3 hour performance in explosive style, complete with pyrotechnics.

The stage was remarkably low, making it startling when band members approached the edge. Camera lenses, just inches away, captured every moment of the first three songs.

In The Beginning

Starting the show in customary fashion with “The Falling Sky,” the setlist quickly took a turn down memory lane. Frontman Josh Kiszka introduced “Talk on The Street,” a song they hadn’t performed in six years. A surprise to all the fans around me and one that was met with unbridled enthusiasm.

With that song played second, the rest of the setlist remained a mystery, but the excitement was palpable. Lead guitarist Jake Kiszka took a moment to touch on a cover of Eddie Cochran’s “C’mon Everybody,” a song Led Zeppelin regularly covered back in the day, including at this very venue during their 1970 United Kingdom tour.

A highlight of the night came right after the intermission when Sam Kiszka (bass/keys) walked out above the crowd to play a piece on the famed organ, informally known as The Voice of Jupiter. The powerful, boisterous display gave everyone goosebumps as he masterfully commanded the 9,999 pipe organ.

Continuing On

The show continued with rare gems from their previous albums, featuring lengthy guitar solos, soaring vocals, and wailing guitars that made the performance endlessly epic.

A swift transition to an acoustic set created a moment of reflection. Daniel Wagner, who you’d usually find behind the drums, showcased his versatility and musicianship on both the mandolin and guitar as the band slowed things down with “Waited All Your Life” and “Anthem.”

After performing fan favorites like “Safari Song,” the show ended in a burst of rainbow colors. The entire venue was illuminated with rainbow lights and adorned with pride flags as Josh belted out “Light My Love.”

To Conclude

As usual, they concluded the evening with an almost tear-jerker, “Farewell for Now,” leaving fans wanting more and wishing the show could go on even longer. This band continues to grow, showcasing their diverse musical skills and exploring new ideas that many rock bands haven’t ventured into. I can confidently say this was the best Greta Van Fleet show I’ve ever attended. I can not recommend them enough – buy the ticket, take the ride.