Electric Eye - Rock & Roll Memories: Garbage @ le Grand Rex, Paris

In a triumphant return to Paris, Garbage tore the roof off Le Grand Rex with a breathtaking show, turning the beautiful art-deco theatre, typically known for its cinema screenings, into a giant dance floor where punk rock and rave music came together as one. The band’s frontwoman, Shirley Manson, repeatedly expressed her elation at being back in the city for the first time since 2018, sentiments that were met with deafening applause from the Parisian audience.

Making this an all-seated show was a baffling decision, but it did nothing to stifle the crowd's enthusiasm: from the moment the band took the stage, the audience was on their feet, dancing, jumping, and singing along to every song. The energy was palpable, a testament to Garbage's enduring appeal and the Parisian fans' unwavering loyalty.

For two hours, Garbage transported us back to an era where the future was bright and full of potential. They reminded us of a time when technology was an exciting new frontier for music, rather than a looming threat to creativity, when the internet was seen as a unifying force rather than a divisive one. The band effortlessly bridged the gap between guitar rock and dance floor electronics, proving that you don't have to choose between making people think and making them dance.

Shirley Manson, the ultimate rock star, was a vision of stunning beauty and unrelenting badassery. Her charisma and powerful stage presence were matched by an avalanche of hits, including "I Think I'm Paranoid," "Push It," "Stupid Girl," and the iconic "Only Happy When It Rains." Each song was met with a roar of approval, the crowd reveling in the nostalgia and energy of the performance.

Amidst rumors of the band’s potential hiatus, drummer Butch Vig reassured fans that Garbage is far from finished: there's a new album on the way, tentatively scheduled for the fall of 2024, and they the band will be touring to promote it. In a night of unforgettable music and heartfelt connection, Garbage proved once again why, over three decades after their debut, they remain a powerhouse in the rock world.

Experience or re-live the concert by playing the setlist in the embedded Apple Music player below