Inside Broken Social Scene’s emotional Manchester concert last night

Last night, Broken Social Scene was in the difficult position of launching their European tour at Albert Hall in Manchester, just one day after 22 people were killed at an Ariana Grande concert a few kilometres away. Understandably, some fans stayed home. But those who showed up were treated to a heartwarming showing of strength and compassion—with a surprise guest appearance by former Smiths guitarist (and Manchester legend) Johnny Marr. Here, a recap of the cathartic evening.

Yesterday, the former chapel announced that programming would go on as scheduled—albeit with increased security and police presence:

Broken Social Scene followed up with a post dedicating their upcoming concert to the “hearts of Manchester”:

Frontman Kevin Drew kicked off the show by thanking the audience for showing up:

Johnny Marr surprised the crowd by jamming with the band for their first two songs:

He told the stadium, “Manchester stands together”:

The band started with “Anthems For a Seventeen-Year Old Girl.” As this concert-goer said, “It was all the feels”:

For many, the show was exactly what they needed on the rough day:

The penultimate song, “Backyards,” ended in the crowd belting, “Be courageous”:

This audience member said it well: “In Manchester, we go to gigs”:

“Music will always bring people together,” was another strong sentiment of the night:

“It was emotional, it was brilliant”:

At the end of the show, guitarist James Shaw posted a photo with Johnny Marr, and said “Hearts in our throats”: