REVIEW: LAKE STREET DRIVE @ MGM MUSIC HALL 12/14

Review by Sophia Blair

Lake Street Dive returned to their roots on Saturday, December 14th, for a dazzling performance at MGM Music Hall Fenway, right in the heart of Boston—the city where their journey began. Formed at the New England Conservatory, Lake Street Dive began as a group of students with the goal of creating a ‘weird jazz band’ before evolving into the genre-defying sensation they are today. Twelve years after their viral cover of ‘I Want You Back’ put them on the mainstream map, the ‘Good Together’ tour celebrates their latest album. With an air of homecoming and celebration, the band delivered a night bursting with soulful energy, seamless chemistry, and vibrant joy.

The night opened with “Good Together,” setting the tone for the evening with its jubilant and danceable rhythm. Rachael Price, the band’s magnetic frontwoman, sparkled—literally—in a disco-ball-esque dress, grooving under pink lights. Her radiant energy was matched by the band’s collective harmonies, each member singing and dancing in sync, creating a palpable sense of togetherness. The crowd erupted as blue lights bathed the stage, ushering in the swingy, beat-driven ‘Rabid Animal.’

“Better Not Tell You” showcased Price’s vocal range soaring effortlessly, while the band’s playful instrumentation kept the song’s fun, jazzy vibe alive. Between songs, she paused to address the crowd with heartfelt love: “Who knew it would be this way, that the ‘Good Together’ tour would basically end in Boston? This is our hometown. This is where we started. We’ve been looking forward to this for a really long time.” With the crowd hanging on her every word, she launched into the iconic “Hypotheticals,” her riffs electrifying as the band matched her energy beat for beat.

Surfing the setlist was fun for everyone. “Seats at the Bar” had Price swinging around a chair in teal and pink lights, while an awe-inspiring bongo solo by Nêgah Santos led into the groovy “Get Around.” The Huntertones—Dan White (saxophone), Jon Lampley (trumpet), and Chris Ott (trombone)—joined the stage for “Party on the Roof,” adding layers of brass brilliance that elevated the night to new heights. Their solos during the iconic cover of “Rich Girl” had the crowd cheering, with rainbow lights swirling in time to the music.

The magic of their synergy was undeniable during “Stop Your Crying,” when the band gathered closer on stage to sing together in perfect harmony. Smiles were shared among the members, radiating pure love and support for each other.

Each band member had their moment to shine. Akie Bermiss, with his signature charm, introduced Calabrese as “a poet of prose” and the band’s driving force behind their greener initiatives. Calabrese then took center stage for the poignant and socially conscious “Making Do,” a moment that showcased how much he cares about the world around him. 

Jazzy moments of looseness during solos reflected how they thrive on creative interplay. A powerful trumpet solo kicked off “Mistakes,” filling the venue with brilliance, while the intricate piano intro to “Baby Don’t Leave Me Alone With My Thoughts” was a moment of pure magic. 

Bermiss himself took the spotlight for a soulful rendition of Shania Twain’s “You’re Still the One,” his vocals dripping with warmth and nostalgia. Bridget Kearney’s basslines anchored the set’s funky grooves, and her quip about holding the record for most foam fingers sold at Fenway Park when she worked there in college—105 in one game—added a delightful local touch.

The band’s connection with the audience was undeniable. During “Dance with a Stranger,” Price popped into the crowd, dancing and singing among the fans. Couples danced together and strangers joined in the groove, transforming the massive venue into an intimate, joyful celebration. Her presence in the crowd blurred the line between performer and audience, creating a shared moment that felt as warm and vibrant as the music itself.

Covers like “Want You Back” and “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” brought a jazzy, soulful twist to beloved classics, while originals like “Seventeen” and “25” showcased the band’s depth and versatility.

The encore felt like a love letter to Boston, blending gratitude with an electrifying energy that had the audience on their feet until the very last note. Calabrese’s heartfelt performance of “Ophelia” by The Band was followed by more spirited solos from the Huntertones. For the finale, the band invited opener Theo Katzmann, who opened for them, back to the stage for a rousing rendition of “Good Kisser,” Price pouring her heart and soul into every note. The night closed with a funky, colorful version of “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life,” complete with dancing, vibrant lights, and a joyful camaraderie that spilled over from the stage into the crowd. 

Lake Street Dive’s performance was a testament to their roots, their growth, and their enduring connection to Boston. Their love for their craft and each other was infectious, and their dynamic blend of soul, jazz, and pop created an unforgettable evening. As the band bowed and thanked the audience, it was clear that Calabreese put it perfectly: “Ain’t no show like a Boston show.” Lake Street Dive had, indeed, left us all feeling “Good Together.”