Collective Soul Review: The See What You Started Tour Makes a Stop in Atlanta

On October 3rd, Collective Soul made a stop at the Tabernacle in Atlanta, GA for another performance on their “See What You Started Tour”. The two of us had the opportunity to experience this concert live and in-person, as close to the stage as we could get considering the crowd of fans. Despite a few minor setbacks, the night ended on a high note and we were left impressed with what we saw.

After arriving early as a precaution for the expected mob of fans, Georgia’s temperamental weather interfered with everyone patiently waiting in line. As the rain began to descend upon ticket holders nearly half an hour prior to the time we were meant to be allowed in the venue, you could tell the crowd just wanted to be let inside. Unfortunately for us, this was not so. Although the doors were meant to open promptly at 7:00, nobody entered the building until at least 7:10. This was not for lack of trying. We still do not know what the delay was, but waiting in the cold, rainy Atlanta street was not the way any of us wanted to kick off the night.

Once we finally made it inside, we attempted to dry our hair and raced to our designated area, all within a five minute window. Imagine our surprise when we we enter the concert space and see the opening act already about to perform. Considering the fact that we were in the front section of the line, it is clear that not everyone with a ticket had the chance to catch the opening bands. We were lucky enough to see all of the performers, but it is disappointing that others did not have this chance considering how talented they were.

Starting off the night was the Atlanta based rock trio, Kick the Robot. We walked into the venue already huge fans of the band, so we knew they would bring their A-game. As usual, the three did not disappoint. If anything, we were impressed that the band could still surprise us by bringing the musical experience to a new level. Guitarist and singer Jess Scarpone hit notes that we did not know were in his register. The band only announced their involvement in this tour a month ago, so it is quite impressive that they were able to form their set so quickly.

Following up Kick the Robot was the Kevn Kinney-DNC Supergroup. This band took the crowd in a different direction, choosing to showcase a more folk rock sound. The audience responded appropriately, in a reminiscent manner. The group warmed up the crowd for headliners, Collective Soul.

After a brief pause, Collective Soul band members took the stage and performed crowd-favorite “December”. Lead singer Ed Roland brought a lot of energy to the band’s set, moving about the stage swiftly, all while belting out the lyrics of the crowd’s favorite songs. From the moment the first chord was played, the audience immediately fell into a similar state of nostalgia. Purely observing the crowd, you would think everyone in attendance had been friends for years.

All ticket holders certainly got their money’s worth with the lineup at the Tabernacle’s Saturday night concert. Fans had a chance to stop by the merchandise area and mingle along with other fans and some band members as well. Though we had a few small issues with the night, none of them involved the bands’ performances.

Grade: A

– Brancey Montgomery (@VROBrancey) and Kristina Fowler (@KristinaMarieF)