Don't Miss

Pearl Jam’s Return to Indiana: Long awaited Black Matter Tour

By Clarissa Darling on August 28, 2024

On August 26, 2024, the legendary Pearl Jam returned to Noblesville, Indiana, delivering a performance that was both a nostalgic nod to their grunge roots and a testament to their enduring evolution. The Ruoff Music Center, with over 25,000 fans in attendance, witnessed a sellout show that not only marked the band’s comeback to the Hoosier state but also served as a redemption for the postponed show from September 10, 2023. This concert has been on a bucket list for many, as the band hasn’t been to Indiana in 14 years.

Before the main spectacle, the stage welcomed a troubadour from the Emerald Isle, Glen Hansard, whose performance would resonate deeply with the audience.

File Photo: Glen Hansard opens for Pearl Jam, Noblesville, Indiana on August 26, 2024. (Photo Credit: Copyright 2024 Larry Philpot / SoundstagePhotography.com)

Hansard, a seasoned musician, is no stranger to the limelight. His journey began on the streets of Dublin, busking and sharing his soulful melodies with passersby. He formed The Frames in 1990, and his career has been a crescendo of poignant songwriting and heartfelt performances ever since. His role in the film “The Commitments” and the award-winning movie “Once” further solidified his place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide.

As the opening act for Pearl Jam, Hansard brought a sense of intimacy to the vast venue. His set was a tapestry of rock influenced by folk undertones, a perfect harmony to Pearl Jam’s grunge symphony. The Irish singer-songwriter’s performance was a brief yet powerful opening set that left an indelible mark on the audience. With a fiddle player complementing his acoustic guitar, Hansard’s music was a soul-stirring experience, a blend of raw energy and delicate storytelling.

Performing “Song of Good Hope,” a track that Pearl Jam would later cover during their set, Hansard showcased his ability to craft songs that are both personal and universally relatable. I found myself captivated by Hansard’s authenticity and passion. Now, a quick beer run, and things got real. Fast.

Pearl Jam took the stage, a band that emerged from the ashes of Mother Love Bone in 1990, has been a cornerstone of the grunge movement. With members Eddie Vedder (lead vocals, guitar), Mike McCready (lead guitar), Stone Gossard (rhythm guitar), Jeff Ament (bass guitar, wearing the Larry Bird jersey), and Matt Cameron (drums), the band has crafted a sound that’s both unique and influential. Their debut album “Ten” catapulted them to stardom, and they’ve since become synonymous with the ’90s rock scene.

File Photo: The legendary Pearl Jam on their Dark Matter tour, Noblesville, Indiana on August 26, 2024. (Photo Credit: Copyright 2024 Larry Philpot / SoundstagePhotography.com)

The evening kicked off with “Wash,” a deep cut that set the tone for a night of deep emotional resonance and raw power. The band’s setlist was a journey through their discography, featuring hits like “Alive,” “Even Flow,” and “Jeremy,” songs that have become anthems for generations of fans. The energy was palpable as each chord struck a chord in the hearts of the audience.

Eddie Vedder’s voice, still as hauntingly beautiful as ever, carried the weight of the years and the stories behind the lyrics. Mike McCready’s guitar solos were a highlight, showcasing his incredible talent and passion. Stone Gossard and Jeff Ament provided the rhythmic backbone that has always been a signature of Pearl Jam’s sound, while Matt Cameron’s (formerly of Chris Cornell’s Soundgarden) drumming was both powerful and precise.

The finale was a rollercoaster of emotions. “Yellow Ledbetter” began the closing sequence, a song that has often been an encore staple for the band. However, in a surprising twist, the night ended with a cover of The Who’s “Teenage Wasteland,” a fitting tribute to their rock forefathers and a nod to their own legacy. It was well worth the wait, hopefully it won’t be another 14 years. At 59, Vedder still rocks with a nice even flow.