Alkaline Trio-Council Bluffs-10.9.26

Alkaline Trio at Stir Cove in Council Bluffs, Iowa on October 9, 2026.

Photos and Review by The Pit Magazine Contributor, Bob DeHart Photography

The Stir Cove was the place to be, a great line up of three different acts, each with their own distinct identities. And the crowd seemed to love each one a little more than the last. First up was Teen Mortgage, and then came the Alkaline Trio. They had a huge fan base show up for this show. I was pleasantly surprised how many were there to see these guys. Not that I doubted their popularity, but the headliner, Rise Against also has such a large following too.

This was my first time seeing the Alkaline Trio. And to be honest, I forgot how long these guys have been around. To me they are this anomaly of a band that has always seemed to be there, I don’t remember the first time I heard of them, I just know they existed. But when looking back at what they’ve done, I was surprised to see they have been around since the mid-90’s. Bands do not last that long if they don’t have what it takes, and these guys definitely have what it takes.

From the opening song, We’ve Had Enough, Alkaline Trio had the crowd eating out of their hands. Other highlights for me was Stupid Kid, Emma, and the set closer Radio. I’m not sure where those songs fall on the hardcore fan list, but I really loved the vibe of those songs. Just a great set overall and I’m not sure they could be paired with a better tour.

This was the last show of the Stir Cove concert series for this year. They could not have ended with a better show. As a casual fan of the bands playing, I could walk away and say, ok…I get it. This is why people keep coming back for more. I hope it’s not my last time getting to cover these guys. Definitely worth seeing. This tour as a whole is amazing. Get out and see it if you can!