Matt Johnson and The The returned to Vancouver’s Orpheum Theatre with an emotional, sprawling performance on November 4, 2024. Known for his intense and poetic approach, Johnson took the audience on a journey both contemporary and retrospective, balancing thought-provoking new material with cherished classics. The sold-out crowd, many of whom had been fans for decades, were treated to an evening that felt as much like a cathartic ritual as a concert.
The night opened with the new material, collectively titled “Ensoulment,” an apt name for a set rich in existential contemplation and social critique. “Cognitive Dissident” set the tone with dark synths and sharp lyrics, perfectly capturing Johnson’s unique blend of cynicism and hope. From there, the songs grew in scope and depth: “Some Days I Drink My Coffee by the Grave of William Blake” married introspection with a sense of poetic irreverence, while “Zen & the Art of Dating” brought humor and melancholy to bear on the modern malaise of love in the digital age.
Throughout the first set, Johnson’s voice—still as raw and magnetic as ever—drew the audience into each song. “Kissing the Ring of POTUS” stood out as a biting critique of modern politics, with Johnson’s sardonic delivery underscoring the song’s message. “Life After Life” and “Where Do We Go When We Die?” both dipped into deeper, spiritual waters, offering moments of solemnity that silenced the crowd.
The second set, aptly named Retrospective, was where longtime fans found themselves singing along, often word-for-word. Starting with “Infected,” Johnson cranked up the energy, shifting gears with his mix of industrial beats and post-punk edge. Armageddon Days Are Here (Again) felt as eerily relevant as ever, its prophetic lyrics about global conflict finding a new resonance in 2024.
A high point came with “Heartland,” its urgent plea for clarity and unity ringing through the Orpheum’s historic walls. Johnson’s voice carried the weight of decades of political and social unrest, and the audience was visibly moved. “Slow Emotion Replay” and “This Is The Day” brought a lighter, reflective touch, with Johnson leading the crowd in a tender singalong that seemed to bridge generations of fans.
The encore was nothing short of electric. “Uncertain Smile” was a standout, with its iconic piano riff swelling to new heights, and “GIANT” brought the night to a roaring close. The energy in the theater was palpable, each note carrying the weight of shared experience and a lifetime of music.
Matt Johnson proved yet again that The The’s work, whether old or new, is both timeless and timely. His ability to weave intimate introspection with sweeping social critique made this concert a memorable night. Vancouver fans left the Orpheum feeling both inspired and perhaps a little haunted by Johnson’s unflinching reflections on the human condition. It was a masterful performance, a reminder that The The’s music remains as vital now as ever.