Modest Mouse brought their Ice Cream Party Tour to Columbus, Ohio, treating fans to an unforgettable night of indie rock on a beautiful Saturday evening.
Opening the show was Doug Martsch, best known as the frontman of the 90s indie rock band, Built to Spill. With just an acoustic guitar and his signature laid-back presence, Martsch delivered a mellow, heartfelt performance that set the perfect tone for the evening of live music. Martsch played fan favorites such as “Dream” and “Offer,” giving the audience a taste of his solo work. His relaxed demeanor and stripped-down acoustic style created an intimate atmosphere, with concertgoers gently swaying to his rhythmic melodies and lyrics.
Though his setup was simple, just Martsch and his guitar, his performance resonated deeply with the fans. The crowd was clearly vibing with him, drawn in by his authenticity and energy.
When Modest Mouse took to the stage, the energy at the venue exploded. Frontman Isaac Brock was joined by a full ensemble of talented musicians, including those on drums, synthesizers, bass, and banjo, which added rich layers to the band’s already eclectic sound. Throughout their two-hour set, the group showcased their distinctive blend of experimental instrumentation, poetic lyricism, and raw emotion.The band kicked off their set with “The World at Large,” the beloved opening track from their critically acclaimed 2004 album Good News for People Who Love Bad News. From the first recognizable notes, the crowd erupted, singing along word for word and giving the band a very warm welcome.
The show also was celebrating over 20 years of Good News for People Who Love Bad News. The band played several tracks from the album including “Dance Hall,” “Bukowski,” “Black Cadillacs,” and a moving rendition of “The Good Times Are Killing Me,” all adding to the nostalgia of the evening.
But the evening wasn’t just about throwbacks. The setlist was a well-balanced mix of old hits and newer material. Moving through their catalog of music, fan-favorite “Dashboard” was up next from their 2007 album We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank, which had the crowd dancing and singing along, while “Little Motel” and “Fire It Up” added more depth to their performance. The band also performed newer tracks like “We Are Between” from The Golden Casket and “Of Course We Know” from Strangers to Ourselves, proving they’re still evolving and pushing their creative boundaries within the genre of indie rock.
By the end of the night, the venue buzzed with energy and nostalgia. Modest Mouse once again reminded everyone why they’ve remained a defining voice in indie rock for more than two decades: they are true musicians, capable of turning any night into an unforgettable experience through the power of music and community.
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