Motion City Soundtrack

The Basement East // January 6

On the night of January 6, 2024, The Basement East was filled with superfans from Nashville, all lined up for Motion City Soundtrack in anticipation to listen to the alternative indie band that’s been performing around the US for decades (two, to be exact)! The rock band from Minnesota formed just a year after my birth, in 1997, but somehow their music found a way years later into the playlists from my middle and high school years. The occasion was nothing short of iconic – a celebration marking the 20th anniversary of their debut album, "I am the Movie," released in 2003. The band performed the entire album for their fans, along with more hits during the encore. Notably, they performed deep cuts and hidden gems such as “1000 Paper Cranes,” a track untouched by stages for over a decade.

As the band members took their places once stage, the lights dimmed as two LED displays painted abstract patterns and vibrant hues that complimented the high-energy anthems. Justin Pierre, the charismatic lead vocalist and guitarist, played to the crowd enthusiasm, engaging in playful banter all throughout the night. His reoccurring jest declared each song as the last song of the night, which created an infectious energy from the crowd with fans responding passionately as they sang at the top of their lungs, filling the nearly 600-capacity venue with more and more energy as the night progressed.

Amid all the laughter and banter, Motion City Soundtrack delivered a set comprised of all 14 songs from their timeless album. The band’s departure from the stage left the audience in suspense, wondering if the teased encore was an illusion. As the atmosphere of anticipation grew, with a fervent fan nearby clamored loudly for the elusive

“1000 Paper Cranes.” Suddenly, the stage lit back up, and the band reemerged from behind the stage and sent a wave of euphoria through the crowd. Their first song of the night was, indeed, “1000 Paper Cranes,” which got the audience roaring. The band continued on with hits such as “L.G. FUAD, Everything is Alright, and Alcohol Eyes.

As the night ended, the crowd dispersed, clutching merch and already reminiscing on cherished memories of the show. Motion City Soundtrack delivered a performance that blew the crowd away – everything was more than alright; it was truly exceptional.