‘How to Save a Life’ was released 20 years ago and The Fray is celebrating with an anniversary tour.
The group brought their mid-2000s pop rock hits to a sold out Chicago Theatre show on Aug. 15.
“We’re going to play every song off of our first album tonight,” said Joe King, lead singer of The Fray. That album had four hit singles, but all of the songs are full of emotion and feel like a step back in time.
While the band looks different than its early days, the songs have the same feel and emotion behind them when performed live. Original lead singer Isaac Slade stepped down in 2022 to take care of his mental health. King, who was formerly on backup vocals and lead guitar, stepped effortlessly into the role, and has done a good job capturing and honoring the mark Slade made on the band.
Not feeling intimidated by the large audience, King ran joyfully into the stands during “Crowded Room” and interacted with fans. Moments like this – and multiple singalongs, and King throwing flowers and petals to fans during “Hurricane” — made the crowded venue feel more intimate.
“Don’t stop dreaming, Chicago!” King shouted multiple times as the band transitioned into a surprising and strong cover of “Dreams” by the Cranberries.
Leading into the encore, the band sang happy birthday to their guitarist and then played two original songs and one more cover to close out the evening.
Nostalgic opening acts
The openers for The Fray followed the headliner’s lead when it came to nostalgic sets. From songs telling stories to sounds that resembled a different decade, they kept with the theme.
Vocalist Cassandra Coleman was the first to perform. The indie-pop vocalist and former American Idol contestant’s soulful voice took listeners along for a story from another time during her performance of original song “Coming of Age.”
The Strike brought 80s charm with their vintage pop vocals and instrumentals reminiscent of a time before social media (further enhanced with saxophone and synthesizer).
All photos by Stephanie Dennis for The Pit Media.
