Trans-Siberian Orchestra Plays PPG Paints; UPMC Events Center Hosts The 1975 (Sat., 12/17/22)

1) In 1996, musician/rock band manager Paul O’Neill hit upon the idea that Christmas tunes could be totally progressive and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra was born. The TSO plays holiday music, traditional and originals, with a Rush level of elaboration and technical skill, all of which has racked up millions of album sales. You probably know the band’s wailing, synth-infused version of “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo,” a.k.a. “Carol of the Bells.” It’s one of the most hardcore tracks that DJs pull out every December. Music like this deserves the arena treatment, with a great light show and all, so the TSO has been touring major venues at the holiday season annually. Paul O’Neill passed away from chronic health problems in 2017, and bassist Dave Z (David Zablidowsky) died that year too, in a motor vehicle accident. But the band plays on—surely, as these men would have wished—and the TSO visits PPG Paints Arena for matinee and evening performances. The new show is billed as The Ghost of Christmas Eve, the Best of TSO and More. 3 and 7:30 p.m. 1001 Fifth Ave., Uptown. (R.H./M.V.)

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra performing at the Hershey Giant Center in 2004. (photo: Matt, TSO, and Wikipedia)

2) The love between The 1975 and Pittsburgh grows deeper. Most of their shows here are sell outs. The 1975’s breakout single was “Chocolate,” and the members are currently touring behind their Being Funny in a Foreign Language. The album, the British pop rock band’s fifth, hit No. 1 on the UK Albums and Independent Albums charts and no. 2 on the US Billboard Rock Albums chart. The 1975 was nominated for two Grammy Awards, one in 2017 and the other in 2020. Special guest is Blackstarkids. The group’s sound has been described as “a blend garage rock with synth-punk and hip-hop to usher in a new surge of indie.” This mashup can be heard on songs like “Digital World.” 7 p.m. UPMC Events Center Robert Morris University, 6001 University Blvd., Moon Twp. (C.M., R.H.)

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