Twenty One Pilots – Spark Arena: November 17, 2024 (13th Floor Concert Review)

Twenty One Pilots wrapped up a week of stellar musical acts in New Zealand with a show-stopping, two-hour spectacle at Spark Arena. From fan-favorite classics to exhilarating new tracks, their performance was a masterclass in immersive concert experiences, blending theatricality, heartfelt moments, and unmatched crowd energy.

The night was set against the vibrant backdrop of New Zealand’s summer, drawing a sea of teens, millennials, and families. Fans showed up in signature Twenty One Pilots style—black outfits with splashes of red, maroon beanies, and even black-painted necks and hands, echoing frontman Tyler Joseph’s iconic looks from over the years.

Balu Brigada

The night kicked off with local alt-pop outfit Balu Brigada, a band that brought a blend of groovy beats, crunchy guitar riffs, and infectious energy. Fronted by brothers Henry and Pierre Beasley, the group commanded the stage with a dynamic performance. Their keyboardist added depth to their sound with synth beats in place of a non-existent bass role, while the drummer showcased impressive rhythm and flair.

Drawing inspiration from artists like Foster the People and Two Door Cinema Club, the band infused their set with a laid-back, nostalgic charm, often bantering like the Gallagher brothers, shoving each other mid-song and grinning through every note. Songs like So Cold had the audience jumping, perfectly setting the tone for the headliners.

Twenty One Pilots

As the house lights dimmed, a whisper of “What’s your ETA?” signaled the start of the show. Drummer Josh Dun burst onto the stage with an electrifying solo before Tyler Joseph launched himself off a piano, igniting the crowd with high-speed verses from Overcompensate. The audience was instantly swept up in the band’s signature chaos as Tyler ran across the stage, delivering rapid-fire lyrics while leaning into the crowd from the barricades.

The duo made brilliant use of Spark Arena’s expansive stage and production capabilities. Dynamic lighting, lasers, and a live-feed camera operator created an immersive visual feast. While most concerts rely on distant cameras, the on-stage footage brought fans closer to the action, amplifying the energy in the room.

The night was full of surprises. During Car Radio, Tyler disappeared under a black tarp at the piano, only to reappear moments later on the upper tier of the arena, unmasking himself to thunderous applause. The crowd was left stunned by the illusion and Tyler’s effortless command of the stage.

Later, a video intermission showcased heartfelt interviews with fans queuing for the show, celebrating the community that Twenty One Pilots has fostered over the years. Fans proudly displayed tattoos, face paint, and stories of connection through the band’s music.

Josh Dun also had his share of standout moments. During Paladin Strait, he climbed onto a drum set mounted on a platform held up by fans in the crowd—a jaw-dropping feat that highlighted the band’s trust and connection with their audience.

Heavydirtysoul delivered high-octane energy, with its rapid beat switches pushing the duo to their limits. Tyler caught his breath as the mood shifted with My Blood, a pop-infused track that had the crowd swaying.

Midway through the set, Tyler addressed the audience, sharing his love for Aotearoa: “Most bands end their tours here, but I wanted to start with New Zealand to set the tone.” Fans responded with deafening cheers, and Tyler smiled, adding, “This is going to be a good one.”

Songs like The Judge and Jumpsuit had the crowd rapping and singing in perfect unison, while Mulberry Street saw Tyler conducting the audience in a breathtaking phone-light display, creating a shimmering wave across the arena.

For the hit song Ride Tyler brought out one of the youngest fans in the arena to sing along the iconic chorus with him. Telling him to overpower his guitar as much as he could. The crowd cheered the child on as they reignited their 2010s nostalgia while the kid went through an unforgettable new memory. 

The band saved their best tricks for last. For Trees, Tyler and Josh orchestrated a circle in the middle of the crowd, where a piano and drum set were rolled in. As the band began, fans filled the circle, joining in an emotional singalong. The duo concluded with thunderous drumbeats, showering the arena in confetti and sealing the night with a cathartic finale.

The seamless production, from flawless stage transitions to perfectly timed effects, was a testament to the crew’s dedication. Twenty One Pilots once again proved why they’re one of the most innovative live acts today. Their Spark Arena performance wasn’t just a concert—it was an unforgettable journey that celebrated their artistry, their fans, and their unwavering commitment to putting on the best show possible.

by Azrie

Click on any image to view a photo gallery by Chris Zwaagdyk:

Twenty One Pilots:

Balu Brigada: