The Verve Pipe Put On A Flawless Show At Vivarium In Milwaukee

Embarking on an evening under the dazzling ambiance of Vivarium in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, unveils a rich narrative not only of stellar musical performance but of a city’s relentless ardor for cultivating arts and culture. Situated on the thriving East Side, Vivarium, a venture brought to life by the visionary Pabst Theater Group, echoes with the resonance of innovation and heritage, merging to foster an atmosphere where creativity and self-expression come alive. This venue, which spans a generous capacity of 450, manifests a distinctive blend of architectural marvels with its lush greenery, the skyline unveiled through its skylights, and an atmosphere pulsating with the energy of live music.

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As the night unfurled, the stage welcomed an opening act that symbolized a profound linkage to Milwaukee’s own musical lineage, Goran Kralj & Morgan Dawley from The Gufs. A testament to local talent and the intimate connection between a city and its artists, this duo not only set the tone for the evening but reminded everyone of Milwaukee’s rich, unbroken relationship with its musicians. Emerging in the late '80s, The Gufs carved a niche in the heart of Milwaukee, blossoming from the vibrant eastside bars into a symbol of unity and aspiration, which resonates deeply with Vivarium’s ethos.

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As the fervor from the opening act tapered to a buzz of anticipation, The Verve Pipe took center stage, instantly capturing the packed room’s attention. Commencing their set with Local Boys, a testament to their Midwestern roots and emblematic narrative style, the band transitioned into a deep dive through their celebrated 1996 album Villains. Each note played was a brushstroke painting a broader picture of their journey, encapsulating decades of musical evolution and personal growth. The announcement of a new song, Dust, was met with an electrified silence, as the crowd intently listened to a composition inspired by a retreat to northern Michigan - a candid share that offered insight into their creative process.

In their set, a repertoire that traversed through their chart-topping hit The Freshmen, the nostalgic Photograph, and a rendition of David Bowie’s Life On Mars, there was a palpable blend of homage and evolution. Adding Colorful into the mix, a song renowned for its feature in the movie Rockstar, further illustrated their ability to seamlessly weave narrative and melody into a tapestry of emotional resonance.

Culminating their main set with Happiness Is before retreating momentarily off stage, the charged energy of the audience beckoned them back for an encore. The Verve Pipe’s choice of The Chain by Fleetwood Mac as their closing piece was nothing short of transcendental, encapsulating the unity and timeless essence of music.

What transpired that night at Vivarium was not merely a concert but a commemoration of artistic endeavor and community. The venue, with its impeccable design favoring Milwaukee and Wisconsin-crafted fixtures, provided the perfect canvas for such a vibrant musical exhibition. It was evident that every corner of Vivarium, from its bespoke lighting bearing the emblematic V to the harmonious blend of modern and rustic décor, was crafted with a profound respect for the arts and an understanding of the indispensable role venues play in the music ecosystem.

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In essence, the concert was a microcosm of the transformative power of music and the unwavering support of a city for its cultural institutions. The Verve Pipe, along with the profound touch of Milwaukee’s own The Gufs, did not just perform; they reignited a sense of community, showcased the evolving landscape of music, and underscored the indispensable role venues like Vivarium play in the heartbeat of a city's cultural life. It was an evening that transcended mere musical performance, embedding itself as a defining moment in the continuum of Milwaukee’s rich cultural tapestry.

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Verve Pipe Set-List

Local Boys

Photograph

Penny Is Poison

Dust (New Song)

Cup Of Tea

Veneer

Spoonful Of Sugar

Hero

Myself

Life On Mars (David Bowie Cover)

The Freshmen

All Of You

Never Let You Down

Colorful

Bridges

Happiness Is  

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The Chain (Fleetwood Mac Cover)