Photos by: Sam Auer
The Word Alive recently wrapped up the first leg of their Hard Reset Tour, and I had the privilege of catching one of their last shows when they came to Iowa City on September 1st. This night promised an unforgettable experience, featuring not only The Word Alive but also the opening acts ‘Nerv’ and ‘Dark Divine’, as well as two talented local bands. As the night unfolded, it just kept getting better with each set.
The timing of this show was perfect, as The Word Alive had just released their new album, "Hard Reset," the week before their Iowa City performance. This tour was a special celebration of their 15 years as a band, and fans were in for a treat with a mix of both old classics and fresh tracks. It was a unique experience to witness the crowd passionately singing along to songs that had been released only a short time ago, showing the band's enduring connection with their fanbase.
In between sets, I had the chance to chat with a local fan who had attended their VIP event before the show. He shared that the band's interaction with their fans felt more like spending time with friends than meeting music idols. The event consisted of casual activities like playing bags and having drinks, highlighting the band's genuine and approachable nature.
The Word Alive's bond with their fans was palpable throughout their performance. Their connection with the audience was truly special, and it shone through in every song they played. The energy in the venue was electric, and it was evident that both the band and the fans were feeding off each other's excitement.
One of the most memorable moments of the night occurred towards the end of the show when The Word Alive's frontman, Telle, took a moment to address the crowd about mental health. He expressed his gratitude that, regardless of what each person in the room was going through, they had found the time to come together and share a great night of music.
As the night concluded, it became clear that The Word Alive's Hard Reset Tour was more than just a concert; it was a testament to the band's deep connection with their fans and their commitment to spreading positivity and unity through music.
For those who missed this incredible experience, keep an eye out for announcements about future legs of the tour here. If The Word Alive is playing near you, it's a show you won't want to miss. In the meantime, make sure to stream their fantastic new album, "Hard Reset," and join the ranks of fans eagerly awaiting their return to the stage.