Nearly 30 years into their career, Modest Mouse demonstrated their enduring draw by packing Boston’s MGM Music Hall on November 19. The show served as both a celebration of their longevity and a specific tribute to their breakthrough album “Good News for People Who Love Bad News” on its 20th anniversary.
The evening’s format paid proper respect to both the album being celebrated and the band’s extensive catalog. Opening with a complete performance of “Good News” in sequential order, fans experienced the album as it was originally intended – a journey through indie rock’s evolution at the turn of the millennium. The familiar opening notes of “The World at Large” set the tone for the night, while their breakthrough hit “Float On” had the crowd singing every word. A particularly energetic rendition of “Dance Hall” transformed the venue into a jumping, swaying mass of enthusiasm, proving that even after two decades, these songs haven’t lost their power to move a crowd.
The decision to play “Good News” in its entirety offered fans a unique opportunity to hear some of the album’s deeper cuts live – songs that might not always make it into a standard setlist. This format also highlighted how cohesively the album works as a complete piece, rather than just a collection of singles.
After a brief intermission, the band returned to deliver a curated selection of hits from their broader catalog. Songs like “The Whale Song” and “King Rat” rounded out the night, reminding the audience that, while “Good News” might have been their commercial breakthrough, their artistry extends well beyond that single album. These later songs showcased the band’s evolution while maintaining the raw energy and distinctive sound that has defined Modest Mouse for nearly three decades.
The packed venue served as testament to Modest Mouse’s staying power in an ever-changing musical landscape. Twenty years after “Good News” helped bring them to mainstream attention, and nearly thirty years since their formation, they continue to draw crowds and deliver performances that honor both their past and their ongoing musical journey.
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