Balu Brigada Sets the Stage for The Clancy Tour
by Claire Johnson | October 1st, 2024
All images are from Bali Brigada Opening for Twenty One Pilots - Clancy Tour in Chicago on 10/01/24.
Photo by Claire Johnson | @clairejellocreative
Hailing from Columbus OH, Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun of Twenty One Pilots returned to Chicago for two nights at the United Center for The Clancy Tour on October 1 and 2, 2024. Their last time performing in Chicago was back in 2021 for the Takeover Tour. Avid fans of the band have been queuing for days in fan-made lines to attend these shows and listen to their favorite tracks off their latest album Clancy.
Balu Brigada, a New Zealand band consisting of brothers Pierre and Henry Beasley, opened the evening with one of my personal favorites in their discography, “Moon Man”. Mixed with upbeat and experimental instrumentals, the song transitions into a smooth and resonant chorus that leaves people with a sense of want and longing. It is a wonderful experience to witness the two brothers' unspoken appreciation of being on stage together, an energy that can be felt within the entire arena. Balu Brigada has not only proven themselves as worthy of the opportunity to open for Twenty One Pilots but also being great performers and how they have no intentions of leaving the music space any time soon.
Photo by Claire Johnson | @clairejellocreative
Before Twenty One Pilots takes the stage, the line “What’s your ETA?” from their song “Midwest Indigo” is blasted over the speakers and in return, the audience finishes the line by shouting “TWO MINUTES.” This was a fun interactive bit that engaged the audience to get excited for the two minute countdown before Twenty One Pilots’ performance even began.
As the night went on, Tyler continuously expressed his acknowledgement and appreciation for Chicago. He mentioned how good it was to be back in Chicago and that he was “trying to soak [the audience] in…” and how “it is not lost on [him and Josh] how amazing” it was to be there.
Earlier in the day, local radio station Q101 also hosted a small intimate performance by Tyler Joseph where fans learned that he had hurt himself at the first tour stop and did not realize how bad his injuries were until 9 shows later. He informed the audience that he had broken his fibula and tore his ACL.
There are still 7 tour dates left for the North American leg, including a three-night run of home town shows this weekend at Nationwide Arena. Columbus is expected to have an influx in visitors and excited fans attending the shows. All in all, it is safe to say how dedicated Tyler is to these shows, this tour, and these fans. If you have an opportunity to make it out to a show, I highly encourage it.
