It’s difficult to describe the feelings and emotions that go along with a show, the magnitude of Muse and Thirty Seconds To Mars. In a way, it’s the equivalent to an acclaimed heavyweight bought - the upcoming Mayweather vs. McGregor if you will. It’s a prized fight between two must see fighters, or in this case, two must-see bands. It’s almost guaranteed that Mayweather will defeat McGregor - he has too many advantages. Like the unbeaten champ, Muse too boasts every edge - the headlining time slot, unrivaled production and longer set list. Despite all the above, 50 percent of the viewers will pay to see McGregor (Thirty Seconds To Mars) because of the unexpected showiness and premier entertainment. There’s something about the underdog, that if they place their punches precisely, they’ll upstage the preeminent favorite.
In one corner there’s Matt Bellamy, glowing in blue Kanye West “Stronger” inspired shades, and LED infused guitar and vibrant red pants. He’s backed by a renowned team worthy of two Grammy Awards and slew of other praised nominations for their unique, two-decade long career.
In the other corner is Jared Leto, decked in an extravagant outfit consisting of blue track pants, a flowery satin scarf and Eastbound & Down inspired sunglasses. It’s a unique look to say the least. Perhaps better know for his Academy award-winning acting adventures, Leto is otherworldly in front of brother Shannon Leto and Tomo Miličević. Commanding the stage in a way that only few could match, the Oscar winner’s presence is unmistakable and pronounced.
While Muse is perfect in each strum of the guitar and their practiced performance, Thirty Seconds To Mars is perfectly winging it, or at least that’s how it feels. That’s by no means a dig at Leto and co. The band’s approach is a breath of fresh air. Between jumping out into the crowd, passionately singing with fans of all ages and characters, Leto’s attitude is welcoming and a sight to see. During the band’s final song, he nearly invited the entire venue onto stage with him. Seriously, if your dream is to perform “Closer To The Edge” with Thirty Seconds To Mars, all you have to do is ask.
Muse is mistake free. The glimmer of the band’s aesthetic radiates in the dark venue and Bellamy fails to miss a note in the six minute long “Knights Of Cydonia.” The performance beckons for applause. Every song is backed by high-tec gear and eye-catching production. During “Dig Down,” the band’s recently released single, Dominic Howard’s guitar set slides in front of multiple imposing blue screens reading “Dig Down.” It compliments Muse’s style as Bellamy’s shrieks fall in and out of the space time continuum.
In contrast, Leto and Bellamy, Muse and Thirty Seconds To Mars, aren’t really alike. Musically, you wouldn’t pair either band with each other in a road trip playlist. Their styles clash, but in the same breath, there’s no way you’d want to miss a chance to see them on tour together. There’s too much superstardom at play. Whether its Leto’s Method commitment to the rockstar stereotype or Bellamy’s skilled instrumentation and vocals, there’s plenty to buy into. At the end of the day, no one is specifically watching just one fighter, the show is in both corners.
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