Trans-Siberian Orchestra at the DCU Center – November 27, 2021

In 1996, Trans-Siberian Orchestra released their first album, Christmas Eve and Other Stories. Their blend of rock and Christmas music became incredibly popular. Now, they’re celebrating the 25th anniversary of that album, with a winter tour that rivals no other.

While TSO has a great library of music to perform, they don’t just rest on the music, TSO puts on a show. Their production level rivals, and is often reminiscent of the legendary KISS. From pyrotechnics to band members flying out over the audience, there’s always something going on to entertain. And one thing they have that KISS doesn’t? Snow. That’s right, it snowed inside the arena during their performance!

A huge cast of amazing musicians made up the performance. A choir of ten singers, many of whom sang leads throughout the night, guitars, bass, violin, keyboards, as well as a local string section come together to perform versions of these songs that are faithful to the studio recordings.

One of the singers, who was new to the tour this year, was Gabbie Rae, who is a native of Fall River, Massachusetts. They pointed out her sister in the audience, and I’m sure it was a special night for her to be back in her home state, performing with such a huge production.

The band first performed the entire Christmas Eve album, which includes their hit “Christmas Eve (Sarajevo 12/24),” an interpretation of the classic “Carol of the Bells.” After that, they introduced all the singers, and went on to play many of their other hits, such as “Christmas Canon Rock” and “Wizards in Winter.”

If you want to celebrate Christmas music, but with something a little higher octane than the local church choir, Trans-Siberian Orchestra is a great way to do it, and the energy of their performance just shows how they can continue to sell shows out after 25 years!