I was lucky enough to see all three opening bands, The Bravery, The Kaiser Chiefs, and Franz Ferdinand, perform on this first North American leg of Green Day‘s World Tour.

The Bravery’s performance stood out more for me primarily because of the massive pranks that took place on stage that night. Reviews had been quite mixed with the band as openers, but from what hear tell, they improved (loosened up, moved more, got haircuts) during their time with Green Day and truthfully, their set, besieged as it was the night I saw them by possibly “The Snoo,” was pretty good. Of course, this may have been helped by the fact that the prank was pretty damned good and true to their name, the Bravery took a valiant stand and unexpectedly pranked Green Day right back, even if they did run off squealing like girls when Billie Joe admonished them. Good on ya!

Green Day Pranks the Bravery, Albany, July 25, 2009

I saw the Kaiser Chiefs twice, and I really like the concept of this band, but I’m still not convinced on its performance in a large stadium. I must say, however, that I was fortunate to see an episode of the British teevee show, “Never Mind the Buzzcocks,” posted by the lovely Kryssi with KC lead singer Ricky Wilson, as the show’s host. I was impressed. Funny stuff. Watch here. Part I. Part II. Part III.

Of the three opening bands, I’d actually like to see the Kaiser Chiefs as the headliner, in a much smaller venue. Unless, of course, their next album comes with full brass orchestration! The prank that Green Day played on them at their last night in New Orleans was almost as swell as The Bravery’s last night in Albany, though without the toilet paper and complete with a New Orleans Brass Band that perfectly complemented Wilson’s voice. He does have a great voice.

Green Day Pranks the Kaiser Chiefs with Brass –

New Orleans, August 7, 2009

Here’s the thread at the Kaiser Chief’s Forum and fans reaction to the prank. Apparently they were hoping for toilet paper as well as the brass band!

Personally, my favorite band of the three was Franz Ferdinand. They were very tight, and musically brave for the most part. Their stage presence was pretty good (but what’s up with the bassist?), and I personally appreciated their style more than the other two. However, all three bands were solid, and I’m happy that I got the chance to see them all.

Franz Ferdinand Opening for Green Day, HP Pavilion, August 21, 2009

Tomorrow night, as Green Day leaves its first round of North American touring (please, there has to be a second North American leg!!!), it’s Franz Ferdinand’s turn to become puppets of the masters. I wonder what’s in store for them?

Hmmm…. we shall see.

Truthfully, it’s gonna be really sad to see Green Day go away for a little bit again.

Just watch out, Franz! They are coming to get you!