On the warm Texas evening of August 27th, the Dos Equis Pavilion in Dallas, TX, became a haven for music fans as THIRTY SECONDS TO MARS and AFI delivered unforgettable performances that left the audience breathless. The evening was a perfect fusion of gothic energy and arena-sized anthems, with each band showcasing their distinct styles to create a truly captivating experience. From the raw, emotional intensity of AFI’s set to the theatrical and uplifting performance by THIRTY SECONDS TO MARS, the night was a celebration of sound, connection, and the enduring power of live music. Fans arrived eager for an unforgettable show, and the two bands exceeded all expectations, turning a summer night into a legendary event.
Opening the night, AFI delivered a set packed with gothic energy and alternative anthems, igniting the crowd with their unique sound and passionate performance. Frontman Davey Havok was a commanding presence, captivating fans with his soaring vocals and theatrical movements.
The setlist featured fan favorites like “Girl’s Not Grey” and “Love Like Winter,” which had the crowd singing along to every word. “I Hope You Suffer” brought a hauntingly intense moment, with Havok pouring raw emotion into every lyric. Meanwhile, tracks like “Beautiful Thieves” and “17 Crimes” showcased the band’s ability to balance melody and aggression seamlessly.
A highlight of their set was the performance of “Miss Murder,” a song that brought the entire pavilion to its feet as the crowd joined Havok in a thunderous singalong. Guitarist Jade Puget, bassist Hunter Burgan, and drummer Adam Carson delivered a tight, electrifying performance, reminding fans why AFI remains a staple in alternative music.
AFI
After a brief intermission, THIRTY SECONDS TO MARS took the stage with their theatrical flair and signature anthems. Opening with “Up in the Air,” the band instantly had the audience on their feet, setting the tone for a high-energy and immersive performance.
Led by the charismatic Jared Leto, the band delivered a dynamic setlist that spanned their discography. Tracks like “Kings and Queens,” “Walk on Water,” and “This Is War” had the crowd belting out every word, while newer songs like “Seasons” and “Never Not Love You” showcased their evolving sound. The stunning visuals and vibrant lighting enhanced the epic atmosphere, creating a feast for the senses.
One of the night’s standout moments came during an acoustic chorus of “Capricorn (A Brand-New Name),” which saw Leto leading the audience in an intimate, unifying singalong. The encore brought the evening to a euphoric close with performances of “Stuck,” “The Kill (Bury Me),” and “Closer to the Edge,” leaving the crowd buzzing with excitement.
THIRTY SECONDS TO MARS
The night at Dos Equis Pavilion was a perfect blend of dark intensity and arena-sized anthems. AFIs brooding yet electrifying performance set the tone, while THIRTY SECONDS TO MARS delivered a larger-than-life show that left fans in awe.
For Dallas concertgoers, this was more than just a night of music—it was a celebration of connection, emotion, and the transformative power of live performances. Both bands delivered in their unique styles, making this a night that will be remembered for years to come.