Guster ended their “We Also Have Eras” tour in Boston, blending music and comedy for a memorable night. Returning to the city felt like a homecoming, considering their beginnings at Tufts University’s campus where they began their college and musical journey. The local fans, known for their fervent support of hometown musicians, filled the venue with excitement and pride. Witnessing Guster’s journey from small local bars to a sold-out show at the MGM Music Hall at Fenway was a full circle moment for everyone who has followed their rise over the past three decades.
Before the main act took the stage, the opener Fruit Bats captivated the audience with a solo performance, breaking from the typical band setup. Lead singer Eric D. Johnson treated us to an intimate acoustic set, showcasing a selection of songs that truly captured the essence of this indie rock band from Chicago.
Eric D. Johnson shared the touching story of how he came to open for Guster. It turns out the members of Guster had penned a heartfelt fan letter expressing their admiration for his music and inviting him to join them on tour. The most poignant moment of the singer’s set occurred during his performance of “A Lingering of Love,” as a profound sense of connection and raw emotion reverberated through the venue with each note.
After the opener set the stage, it was time for Guster to take the spotlight. True to the tour’s name, the show they’ve crafted is a nostalgic journey through the band’s eras. It’s akin to a Broadway production, with scenes that blend comedy and storytelling, providing context before launching into the corresponding songs. The production kicked off with a nod to their humble beginnings in the Tufts dorms back in 1991. Seated on a bed reminiscent of their college days, the original trio—Ryan Miller, Brian Rosenworcel, and Adam Gardner—transported the audience back in time as they kicked off the night with the iconic “Parachute.”
The initial songs in their set were acoustic renditions, providing a refined and intimate glimpse into Guster’s musical style. Through the harmonious blend of acoustic guitars and Brian Rosenworcel’s diverse percussion arsenal, including bongos and cymbals, they establish the intricate foundation that characterizes Guster’s sound as we know it today.
Expanding their already impressive musical ensemble, this show featured a group of wind instrumentalists. Three skilled musicians on saxophone, trumpet, and trombone joined the stage to enhance certain songs. Their talents were showcased notably during “Fa Fa,” eliciting enthusiastic cheers from the audience.
Over the course of the show’s evolving eras, a remarkable transformation occurred in the audience dynamic during the rendition of “Airport Song.” A palpable surge of energy enveloped the venue as the crowd fervently joined in song, their voices soaring to the melody. The stage lights synchronized with the enthusiastic shouts, creating a fun spectacle. As the performance reached its highest point, fans joyously showered the stage with ping pong balls—a cherished tradition that has become synonymous with the song’s conclusion in every live performance.
Among the memorable narratives from the evening, standouts consist of the inclusion of their additional band members, Joe Pisapia, Luke Raynolds, and Dave Butler. Dave’s journey, initially offering support, has blossomed into a pivotal role within the ensemble, now contributing keys to 56 of Guster’s songs. Another captivating tale shared was the serendipitous signing by Steve Lillywhite after catching a performance at Irving Plaza in New York City. Additionally, they recounted the bittersweet saga of parting ways with Warner Records following the release of their fifth studio album, Ganging Up on the Sun.
In response to the narrative of their record label departure, Ryan Miller took center stage to deliver “Thunder Song.” Aptly titled after his bandmates’ affectionate nickname for him, “Thunder Guy,” the song delves into feelings of disappointment and the notion that the band may have reached its end. Serving as an anthem, Miller’s lyrics reflected the band’s achievements, juxtaposed with the irony of their record label departure. He reminded the crowd of their illustrious journey, underscoring the resilience amidst adversity.
Keeping their fans in the loop, Guster pressed on with their musical journey, having undergone some soul-searching and introduced new elements to the band. They evolved their sound with some bass lines and added drumsticks to the percussion mix. And, in a lighthearted nod, they poke fun at the quirky addition of a ladder, considering Brian Rosenworcel’s penchant for hand percussion, which gives that unmistakable Guster vibe to their tunes.
Guster poured their hearts into their performance, delivering a powerhouse set of 29 songs that truly immersed the audience in the journey of their careers. Beyond showcasing their musical evolution, the band’s presentation was peppered with delightful comedic touches, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the evening. As the night drew to a close, the desire to connect with the band members went beyond just their music—you couldn’t help but feel a genuine affinity, wishing for the chance to strike up a friendship with the performers.
In the midst of a jubilant celebration filled with soaring choirs and exceptional instrumentation, Guster gracefully exited the stage, leaving behind a jubilant and thoroughly satisfied crowd of fans. The culmination of their “We Also Have Eras” tour in Boston proved to be a delight for fans and newcomers alike. As the band said their goodbyes, they not only delivered a captivating performance but also shared intimate insights and stories, making the evening a truly unforgettable experience for all in attendance.
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PHOTO GALLERY BY: Nate Rocco
