Thundercat, a multitalented LA-based performer, opened the night with a blend of funk, jazz and soul. From the moment he stepped onstage, the musician had the audience mesmerized with fluid bass lines and smooth vocals. As he belted out well-known tunes such as “Funny Thing” and “Dragonball Durag,” his hands effortlessly traveled over his six-string bass, showcasing a virtuosity that could both awe an audience and reel it in.
Next up were The Strokes, who have been at the forefront of the indie-rock scene for more than two decades. A wave of raw energy washed over the Alamodome as the New York-based band kicked into a tight-knit performance — testament to their years of playing together. From the infectious riffs of "Juicebox" to the anthemic choruses of “Red Light," The Strokes' set was a high-energy journey that had the crowd jumping, singing and dancing along.
Frontman Julian Casablancas' charismatic stage presence and distinctive vocals helped make the show feel intimate even though the Alamodome boasts a capacity of more than 70,000.
“I’ve been dreaming of this place,” he told the crowd. “What a great nation this is, Texas.”
Finally, the time arrived for the Red Hot Chili Peppers to take the stage — one of the few still-touring rock acts capable of filling an venue the size of the Alamodome. The legendary funk rockers jumped right in with an intense drum and bass intro for their energizing hit “Can’t Stop.” The frantic performance set the pace for the rest of their nearly two-hour set.
Frontman Anthony Kiedis' presence and stamina were contagious. He effortlessly commanded the stage. Flea's thunderous bass lines, Chad Smith's relentless drumming and John Frusciante's intricate guitar work provided a powerful instrumental foundation for the signature sound that’s defined the band since it burst onto the scene in the early ’80s.
Hits such as "Californication" had the crowd pumped and singing along. A section in the middle of the set, featuring “Don't Forget Me” from the band's eighth studio album, By the Way, had folks resting in their chairs — but not for long.
Frusciante took the spotlight for a short rendition of Kenny Loggins’ “Danny’s Song,” which transitioned into an intense jam session with Flea. The band ended its regular set with “By The Way,” which had members of the crowd singing at the top of their lungs and dancing with abandon. The encore, featuring mega-hits “Under the Bridge” and “Give it Away” reenergized the packed house. Electricity crackled through the Alamodome as the quartet closed out the night.
Over the course of the evening, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Strokes and Thundercat each brought their own unique style and musical approach to the stage. Combined, it made for an exhilarating musical experience.
Different as their approaches were, they created a shared space where fans were able to lose themselves in the music and revel in the experience of witnessing exceptional acts at the height of their powers.
