Trans-siberian Orchestra – Xcel Energy Center – St. Paul MN – Decemebr 30th 2023

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Live at Xcel Energy Center – St. Paul, MN (Dec 30, 2023)

Review and photos by Kyle Hansen

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) once again delivered their signature blend of symphonic rock, dazzling visuals, and holiday cheer during their 2023 Winter Tour at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul. The show was nothing short of a spectacle, bringing together the best of rock, classical music, and theatrical storytelling. For those who have seen TSO before, they know it’s about more than just the music—it’s an all-encompassing experience that sweeps you up from the first note.

Setlist Highlights:

As expected, the show focused heavily on the band’s holiday-themed classics, particularly The Christmas Eve and Other Stories album, with songs like “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24,” “An Angel Came Down,” and “The Snow Came Down” setting the tone early on. These tracks were met with thunderous applause from the crowd, who seemed to know every word.

While TSO is widely known for their Christmas music, they didn’t shy away from showcasing the full range of their catalog, incorporating instrumental pieces like “Beethoven’s Last Night” and “The Lost Christmas Eve.” The mix of rock ballads, orchestral pieces, and intricate instrumental solos kept the energy high and the audience fully engaged throughout the entire show.

Of course, Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24 was one of the highlights, with its iconic electric guitar riffs harmonizing with the full orchestra in a display of musical synergy that had the crowd roaring. The track is practically a holiday anthem now, and seeing it live, with all its intensity and grandeur, was a moment fans eagerly anticipated.

Performance:

The star of any TSO show is always the musicianship—and the 2023 performance was no exception. The guitarists were on fire, delivering solos that were a perfect blend of technical prowess and raw energy. Chris Caffery and Al Pitrelli were relentless, matching the intensity of the full orchestra behind them with blistering solos and high-energy stage presence.

The string section and symphonic elements (conducted by Peter Wentz) were spot-on, creating a lush, cinematic sound that filled the arena. The fusion of rock and classical was seamless, and the orchestra’s performances of pieces like “Christmas Canon” brought a layer of elegance that elevated the entire experience.

Jeff Plate, on drums, commanded the stage with precision, driving the energy of the show forward, while David Z. (bass) and Dante Leclerc (keyboard) rounded out the rhythm section with a rock-solid foundation that allowed the more intricate compositions to soar.

Vocalists performed their roles impeccably, with Mary Ann Herder and Rob Evan (who also served as the show’s narrator) lending powerful, emotive vocals to the songs that needed them. Their performances, especially during the more emotional moments like “Old City Bar,” resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom sang along in unison.

Stage Production & Visuals:

The light show is one of TSO’s defining elements, and 2023 was no different. The Xcel Energy Center was transformed into a holiday wonderland, with synchronized lighting effects, lasers, and video screens creating a truly immersive experience. Each song seemed to come with its own set of visuals—whether it was dazzling snowflakes, fiery explosions, or snow-covered cityscapes—creating an extra layer of magic that transported the audience to a world of rock-infused holiday cheer.

The pyrotechnics were impressive, with flames shooting from the stage and sparks flying during the more intense rock sections. The visual effects during “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24” were especially breathtaking, as a mix of lighting and projection created a sense of movement and drama, reflecting the chaos of the song’s theme of wartime devastation.

Crowd Interaction:

TSO’s ability to engage with the crowd was undeniable. Between songs, Rob Evan took the time to narrate parts of the story, making the concert feel like a living, breathing piece of theater. There were moments when the entire arena was silent, waiting for the next notes to ring out, and then moments where the crowd erupted in joy, singing along with every word.

The holiday spirit was alive and well in the audience, with fans of all ages coming together to celebrate the magic of TSO’s music. Whether it was families with children or long-time fans of the band, there was a palpable sense of joy that filled the air.

Venue:

The Xcel Energy Center was the perfect setting for TSO’s grandiose performance. The arena’s acoustics helped elevate the sound, ensuring that every note from the orchestra and every guitar riff was crystal clear. The venue’s size allowed for both intimacy and grandeur, and the high-tech lighting and projections matched the scope of the show. The arena was packed, and there wasn’t a bad seat in the house, allowing everyone in attendance to witness the incredible production.

Final Thoughts:

TSO’s December 30th performance at the Xcel Energy Center was everything fans love about the band: jaw-dropping musicianship, awe-inspiring visuals, and a sense of magic that only TSO can deliver. Whether you’re a rock fan, a lover of classical music, or someone just looking to get into the holiday spirit, TSO’s shows are a must-see. The 2023 performance was a thrilling, heartwarming journey, reminding the audience of the power of music and storytelling.

If this show was any indication, TSO’s legacy as one of the most exciting live acts of the 21st century remains firmly intact.

Rating: 9.5/10
An unforgettable, high-energy holiday extravaganza that mixes rock, classical, and visual spectacle to create an experience unlike any other.