The Black Charade brought A Black Parade to the Manning Bar last night and we got to step into the glorious, tribute of My Chemical Romance.
A Paramore tribute band opened up the night and the eager crowd of fans were excited to hear all their favourite cover songs. As we bounced through the set we got to listen to hits including "Still Into You, Misery Business and That’s What You Get" and the remarkably powerful vocals, thunderous drumming, captivating bass, and driving power chords and energetic rhythms soared effortlessly to your ears. The fun band brought a bright, pop-infused sound and the experience made you want to dance.
From the moment The Black Charade launched onto the stage the crowd cheered and everyone was ready. As the band kicked off the set with "Na Na Na (Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na), You Know What They Do to Guys Like Us in Prison and Planetary (GO!)" the energy was palpable, and the songs brought a potent cocktail of nostalgia and raw rock power, and it had the crowd chanting along with every word.
The set continued with "Thank You for the Venom, Halos, Our Lady of Sorrows and Ghost Of You" and The Black Charade embodyed My Chemical Romance. The vocals possessed a striking resemblance to Gerard Way and they captured the theatricality, the vulnerability, and the sheer emotional intensity, and it defined MCR's performances.
The intricate and soaring guitar riffs were delivered with precision and passion as the set continued with "Helena, I’m Not Okay (I Promise), Bloodline and End" and the rhythm section, with its driving bass lines and powerful drumming, provided the solid foundation that allowed the melodies to soar and the energy to remain relentless throughout the set.
The Black Charade's attention to detail echoed through the venue as the iconic stage presence and costumes mirrored the dramatic flair that MCR brings when they play; they clearly understood and respected the source material. They weren't just playing the songs; they were channelling the spirit of My Chemical Romance.
The setlist was well-crafted and it had all the fan favourites as the journey continued with "Dead!, This is How I Disappear, The Sharpest Lives and Mama" and we got a true taste of MCR's discography, and the band's sparkling musicianship brought the venue to life. As "I Don't Love You" played, the energetic Vocalist walked through the audience and sang with everyone in the crowd, it was a magical experience that brought the fans to life.
The transitions between songs were seamless, as "Disenchanted, Teenagers and Famous Last Words" played and the audience sang every lyric to every song, and it created a powerful sense of collective nostalgia and passion.
The Black Charade finished off their set on a soaring high as they played "Welcome to the Black Parade", and it delivered raw emotion. The crowd cheered for another song, and the band played "Cancer" and it captivated us and moved our souls.
While no tribute band can replace the original, The Black Charade offered a fantastic opportunity to relive the magic of My Chemical Romance live. They delivered a performance that was both faithful, energetic and captivating. If you're craving a dose of black eyeliner, anthemic rock, teenage angst, then seeing The Black Charade is an absolute must. They're more than just a tribute; they're a celebration of MCR.