Japanese rock band One OK Rock set Boston alight on Sunday night, as they make their way across the east coast on their DETOX North American Tour. Joining them on the road are Australian alt rockers Stand Atlantic, making for a face-melting, high-energy lineup.
The most distinct quality of the crowd around MGM Music Hall was its diversity; fans from across all generations and backgrounds made their way down Lansdowne earlier in the evening, many of them also being Stand Atlantic fans. The band took the stage shortly after 8pm with explosive energy, doing their absolute best to get the crowd warmed up immediately: moshing was requested and mildly achieved within the first few minutes. The performance was chaotic and powerful, with heavy doses of dry humor that captured the audience right away; the band mentioned their new album had reached #1 in Australia, immediately followed by self deprecation, with the crowd playing along. The band’s raw energy and charisma was the perfect way to kick off the night.
One OK Rock’s visual production was the very first thing fans noticed as the lights went down, with arena-style screens set up on the sides of the stage. The band got the show started with “Puppets Can’t Control You” and “The Beginning” as fans erupted in unison: heads banging, fists pumping, a couple of k-pop light sticks and even a pair of light-up shoes were seen emerging from the crowd. After the band’s initial onslaught, the crowd’s response was just as intense with every note, from “Tropical Therapy” to “Let Me Let You Go,” the excitement amongst fans was palpable.
The band would address the audience often as the show went on, expressing their gratitude and sharing personal anecdotes about the songs and the band itself: guitarist Toru mentioned how One OK Rock was the very first band he ever formed, and has been a part of his life ever since. Frontman Taka also took some time to express his thoughts around the current world climate, focusing on the nature of constant change, and how creating a safe and happy place for everybody is something they can work on as a band. He would also give a longer speech completely in Japanese, a heartfelt touch before moving towards the last part of the show, starting to wind down with the explosive “Stand Out Fit In.” “+Matter” and “We Are” would bring the evening to a close, one of true synergy between the band and their fans, who won’t soon forget this experience.
Photos and words by Maria Alejandra Mata.
Keep up with One OK Rock: TikTok // Instagram // Website
Keep up with Stand Atlantic: TikTok // Instagram // Website
