Gorillaz in Concert – and the Gift That Keeps on Giving

by Olivia Appleton

People who know me, either friends, coworkers, or acquaintances, know the many roles I play. I am a full-time college student, a peer tutor, a co-managing editor (of this newspaper) and an assistant librarian. But, more important, I am a big sister.

My younger brother and I have a complicated relationship. Sometimes we fight when we get on each other’s nerves. Sometimes we help each other. We have a 50/50 chance of being nice or not. As he’s gotten older and matured, we have started to get along more. He’s now 13 and starting high school, and I know it can be a difficult time. So, I wanted to do something nice for him.

Ever since he was young, he has been obsessed with Gorillaz. This British “virtual” band, whose members appear as cartoon figures on their videos and on screens in concert, perform a variety of music styles including electronic, reggae, and rock, at one time was all my brother would listen to. I also enjoy their music and love going to concerts, so when I found out they were performing in Boston, I couldn’t miss this opportunity for both of us.

As the concert got closer, I remember getting nervous. I was bringing my younger brother to Boston with me, which made me the adult in this situation. I wanted to make sure he was always safe and comfortable.

Since I travel up to Boston often with friends, I knew what to do and where to go. I drove us to the Braintree T station parking garage to avoid expensive parking fees. We then took the T all the way to TD Garden through the red and green lines. My brother ended up liking the T since it was one of the rare occasions he’s been able to ride it.

When we got to the venue and got to our seats, the feelings of excitement sank in for the both of us. Our seats were very close to the stage and the screens, so we had an excellent view of everything. This was his first huge concert, and the fact it was Gorillaz really made it memorable.

As the show was playing, I would look over at my brother and see him grinning. I remember feeling so much joy and happiness in that moment. Not only am I giving him an amazing experience, but we’re both experiencing it together.

The show itself was incredible. Gorillaz was accompanied by members of the opening act, EarthGang, along with special guests Bootie Brown, Fatoumata Diawara and Sweetie Irie. It was so cool to see the real people behind the cartoon versions of Gorillaz play their music while collaborating with so many other artists.

Halfway through the show, the lead singer, Damon Albarn, explained how, back in 1991, playing in Boston was his first time ever playing in America. It was a nice connection with our home city.

Due to the length of the show, it ended very late. We got merch after the concert ended and very tiredly made our way back on the T. We got home to smiling parents who wanted to hear all about it.

I am so proud of myself that I was able to give this experience to my brother. I am also proud of my brother for making this the best experience as well. We’re definitely going to remember this forever.

The stage and screens (Olivia Appleton)

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