Train

Train• July 31, 2023•Red Butte Garden

Reviewed and Photographed by Kevin Rolfe

Train, the three-time Grammy award-winning pop rock band, took the stage at Red Butte Garden in Salt Lake City on July 31, 2023. It was a night to remember. The band played all of their classic hits as well as some new material, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that had fans singing along and dancing in the aisles. If you’re looking for a fun night out, Train is a sure bet. I have seen Train several times and I am never let down by their live performance.

Train’s arrival at Red Butte Garden was met with great anticipation and excitement. Fans lined up hours before the show, eager to see the beloved band take the stage. As the sun began to set, the atmosphere buzzed with energy. The band’s tour bus pulled up, and cheers erupted from the crowd. Train stepped out, waving and smiling at the fans who had come to see them. It was a moment of pure joy and anticipation, setting the stage for an unforgettable night of music and entertainment.

It was a homecoming of sorts for the band as guitarist Taylor Locke is from Salt Lake City.  Pat Monahan told us that because this was a homecoming show for him, Locke insisted on throwing out extra shirts.  Now if this is true or not, who knows?  What I do know is the crowd ate it up.  Pat threw shirts all across Red Butte.  On the final shirt he went around the band and had each member sign the shirt.  He eventually threw it to a group of fans.  

During their performance at Red Butte Garden, Train took the audience on an incredible journey through their greatest hits. From the melodies of “Calling All Angels” to the heartfelt lyrics of “Marry Me,” the band showcased their impressive repertoire. Song after song, hit after hit, each song was met with enthusiastic applause and sing-alongs from the crowd. Train’s ability to captivate the audience with their timeless hits demonstrated why they are regarded as one of the best live bands in the business. The list of hits went on and on.  “Save Me, San Francisco”, Meet, Virginia”, “Drive By” and so many others kept the crowd on their feet and dancing the entire evening. Train even threw in a few other classic covers like “American Girl” by Tom Petty and “Hotel California by the Eagles”. It was a night filled with nostalgia and a celebration of the band’s musical legacy.

Pat Monahan, the lead vocalist of Train, truly mesmerized the audience with his enchanting vocals and charismatic stage presence. From the moment he stepped on stage, his energy and passion were infectious. His powerful voice filled the air, captivating everyone in the crowd. Whether he was belting out the high notes or delivering tender ballads, Monahan’s vocal range was impressive. But it wasn’t just his vocals that drew attention. His stage presence was magnetic, effortlessly commanding the attention of every audience member. Monahan’s performance was a masterclass in live entertainment, leaving no doubt that he is a true star.

It looks like music is a family trait in the Mohahan clan.  Both Pat’s son, Rock, and his daughter, Autumn took the stage to perform with their dad.  Rock performed his favorite Train song, “Save the Day” followed by the beginning of “Faithfully” by Journey.  Then he jetted off stage while his father dazzled the crowd with “Calling All Angels”. Rock returned to help his dad hit the big notes at the end of “Faithfully” and the crowd roared their approval of the young guy’s pipes.  Autumn showed some real vocal talent as well when she performed “Bruises” with her dad.  Pat told us that the song was about running into someone from high school.  Autumn is about to go into high school so it was a good song for her to sing.  Both Monahan children brought the house down.

As the final notes of their set faded away, the audience erupted in thunderous applause, demanding more from Train. Monahan told the audience that instead of leaving and coming back they wanted to just stay there and play more songs for everyone. The audience loved that and the concert continued. “Hey Soul Sister” got had the crowd singing and dancing like crazy. I noticed men, who I normally call “Head bobbers” because they don’t dance, but they simply bob their heads when they’re really into it, unable to control themselves. They danced in a way I would have not expected. It was pretty great.

Train launched into their hit song “Drops of Jupiter,” and the crowd erupted with excitement. The opening piano chords instantly resonated with everyone in the audience, and the energy was unmistakeable. People had their phone lights on waving in the night, singing at the top of their lungs, and swaying to the infectious melody. It was a moment of pure unity as everyone joined together to celebrate this timeless Train classic. The band fed off the crowd’s energy, delivering a stellar performance that left everyone wanting more. “Drops of Jupiter” was definitely a highlight of the night, solidifying Train’s place as one of the best live bands in the industry.