Every December, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra rolls into town, and every December, they absolutely deliver. Saturday afternoon’s performance at the Xcel Energy Center was no exception. This year’s show featured “The Lost Christmas Eve,” and while TSO has done this album before, they have a way of keeping things fresh and exciting.
The show kicked off with a bang—literally. Between the opening track “Welcome” and the rare performances of “Moonlight and Madness” and “The Three Kings & I,” it was clear they weren’t holding anything back. The energy in the room was infectious, and the crowd was locked in from the very first note.
Of course, the heart of the concert was their full performance of “The Lost Christmas Eve.” Tracks like “Wizards in Winter” and “Christmas Nights in Blue” were everything you’d hope for: massive, dramatic, and perfectly complemented by the over-the-top light show. The synchronized lasers, pyrotechnics, and even snow falling from the ceiling turned the arena into a winter wonderland. I’ve been to a lot of shows, but no one does production like TSO. No one.
As always, the musicianship was incredible. The guitars wailed, the strings soared, and the vocalists hit every note with power and precision. Chloe Lowery and Monica Formica are my favorites- both giving me goosebumps when they hit the high notes. The band closed their set with the crowd favorite, “Christmas Eve (Sarajevo 12/24)” and the amount of pyrotechnics makes Rammstein look like child play.
One thing I appreciate about TSO is that even though their setlists are fairly consistent year to year, the performances always feel fresh. They’re masters of creating moments, whether it’s a quiet piano interlude or a guitar solo that leaves your jaw on the floor. And they don’t phone it in—which amazes me because they perform so many shows on a tour. Yet, Al Pitrelli seems genuine and grateful to each crowd.
When the final notes faded and the lights came up, I was already wondering if I could buy tickets to the evening show and buzz home to grab the kids so they could experience it, too. My rational thinking told me that would be ridiculous because TSO is so popular that I wouldn’t be able to find 5 seats together at the last minute. TSO isn’t just a concert; it’s a tradition—and one I’m glad to be a part of.
If you haven’t seen them yet, you really don’t know what you’re missing out on. Do yourself a favor and get tickets for next year. This is holiday magic at its finest.
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