May 20, 2015
Last night the Danforth Music Hall was packed with a near sold out crowd all in attendance to see Gerard Way. The former MCR frontman is touring in support of his first solo album, Hesitant Alien, which was released late last year. Although many fans were dressed in MCR shirts and gear, it is safe to say that they were there to celebrate the singer’s new project.
The stage was a basic set up with all instruments in their respective places however, a massive orange backdrop adorned with the album’s mascot, a pink cat named Lola, hung heavy in the background.
As the lights went down, Way’s backing band made their entrance as an eerie instrumental rendition of the opening song “The Bureau” began to play. With the music gradually growing louder, the excitement in the room quickly began to bubble. Suddenly, Way strutted across the stage dawning a black suit and red tie. Having dyed his once red hair back to black, his look harkened back to the days of MCR’s first major label release, Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge. That said, once the music kicked in, everything became about Way’s new sound and less about his MCR association.
In between songs, Way would spoke to the crowd addressing certain topics like travelling and playing Toronto, followed by a few improvisational songs that really got the crowd cheering.
Although it’s clear that Way still carries the title of the MCR frontman adoredly, he’s certainly made a different impression with his solo music. So much so, that he talked about how excited he was to record a second album.
“You know, we’re recording another album after the tour in Russia. I’m so excited because you guys liked the first album so much that they’re giving me a chance to do another one,” he said appreciatively.
Before launching in the song, “How It’s Going To Be,” Way also spoke passionately about how grateful he was to be making music.
“I didn’t think I’d make it past 25, and that’s a true story. I didn’t think there was anything else for me. I didn’t think I’d find love or have anyone care for me, but you just have to see what’s on the other side. You just have to go and find it.”
He also spoke highly about the importance of the trans community and the need to seek help for anyone suffering from depression, respectively. The sentiments left the audience in awe and applauding his words of wisdom and encouragement.
Way played every song on the album, as well as a bonus track titled “Television All The Time.,” that was released as part of the Japanese edition.
As the night drew to a close, Way leaned into the microphone to say that he was “Looking forward to meeting everyone after the show”––a promise he had already made via Twitter. Fans swarmed the back of the venue crowding around a small door. Astonishingly, Way waited for the crowd of well over 100 people who eventually all made their way through to have something signed by the singer and to give him their personal thanks.
There is certainly no doubt that Gerard Way’s passion for music still shines after all these years. Whether it be through his work with My Chemical Romance or his current solo efforts, the singer still puts every ounce of effort into his live performances and doesn’t let the audience down. An admirable trait that will surly continue for years to come.
*Originally posted on Anchorshop.com