Alkaline Trio rocks Palladium Ballroom

The difference between a good concert and a bad concert is a blurred line; a dichotomy dependent on a myriad of variables, including venue, lighting, crowd energy, set-list, opening band talent and well-mixed sound levels. It's rare for a concert to be consistently excellent in all of these elements, but last Saturday night, Alkaline Trio proved an exception to the rule.

Alkaline Trio has been around the block a few times, gaining a large following with their emo-laced punk music that's survived for over a decade, despite numerous lineup changes and a steady sonic evolution. The Illinois natives' popularity was apparent as fans filled the Palladium Ballroom in Dallas.

The floor filled with audience members and an expectant hush fell over the crowd as the Trio took the stage. When guitarist and vocalist Matt Skiba, bassist and vocalist Dan Andriano and drummer Derek Grant took the stage, an eruption of punk emotion ensued.

The charisma and experience of the three band members was obvious through their subtle crowd interactions and crisp song transitions. Punk song after melody-driven punk song poured over the crowd in the one hour and 15 minute set. Their song selection consisted of various hits from their best albums, all well known by the crowd. Mixing music from the bands inception 10 years ago to their most recent release in February, Alkaline Trio appealed to new and old fans alike. Every song turned into a sing-along, which was an unexpected addition to the concert experience.

The group brought some surprises to the set list as well. They played three songs for their encore, including a cover of the Misfits' Angel F**k. Skiba, Andriano and Grant switched instruments as well, with Skiba moving to the drums, Andriano to guitar and Grant to bass and vocals. This transition could have been disastrous for the band's performance, but turned out to be wonderful. Skiba, who started in music as drummer, looked right at home banging away on the snare. Grant proved his versatility as a musician flawlessly playing bass and singing. Lastly bassist Andriano played guitar with ease, letting the crowd know he is worthy of sharing the vocals and lead with Skiba.

The Trio's performance was heightened by the venue's lighting and design. It subtly influenced the overall mood of the concert giving the audience a glimpse into the band's passion. In addition, it brought the crowd closer emotionally to the band with Skiba complimenting the crowd and the lights pouring over the fans.

The opening band, The Dear & Departed, tried desperately to incite memories of Angels and Airwaves and 30 Seconds to Mars while energizing the crowd, both of which they failed miserably at. The lead singer's emotional singing style fell completely flat because his fellow band members moved like animatronic robots. The band's sound was excessively tinny and the bass could barely be heard.

The next band, Cursive, was much more interesting. They were the musical equivalent of a punch in the face. A discordant band with a wide variety of instruments and engaging vocal style, Cursive got the crowd going and finished their set just as they were beginning to get a bit boring.

Overall, the concert was an exciting and rewarding experience that didn't leave the Alkaline Trio fan wanting for anything.