Broken Social Scene Launch Tour In Manchester With Johnny Marr A Day After Terrorist Attack

Broken Social Scene played the first show of their European tour tonight in Manchester, a day after a terrorist incident at an Ariana Grande show left 22 dead and dozens more wounded. The band headlined Albert Hall and ahead of their performance, the venue's promoters confirmed that their programming will remain unchanged. Here's a message they shared via Instagram:

VENUE UPDATE: We would like to convey our deep sadness and sympathy to all those who have been affected by the tragic events that occurred last night at Manchester Arena. In support of Manchester, the City leadership and the Chief Constable of Manchester we can confirm that all live shows at our venues will be going ahead tonight as planned. Albert Hall = Broken Social Scene Gorilla = Homeshake The Deaf Institute = Brent Cobb Additionally, we can confirm that our programme for the next week and beyond is unaffected. We would like to reassure our guests that our management and security teams are in regular communication with the police and relevant authorities and are continuously reviewing and enhancing our safety procedures. #alberthallmcr #manchester #brokensocialscene #staysafe #lovemusic

Broken Social Scene shared a simple message on Facebook ahead of the show: "Tonight, we play for the hearts of Manchester..." Hometown hero Johnny Marr joined the band onstage to open the show with "Anthems For A Seventeen Year-Old Girl," with the band starting things off by proclaiming their support for Manchester:

Thank you for showing up. Thank you for coming out tonight. What's most important is tonight we're here together, all of us. That's what we could do, and that's what we're doing, so thank you Manchester. We're so happy. There's no other place we'd rather be than here with you. To start this show, to show you how we love your town, there's a man who I love dearly who's come out to play for you. He is your city, he is your legend, please give it up for Mr. Johnny Marr.

Watch below.

I've had a crush on Emily Haines since I was 16 and tonight she played the most empathetic gig with Broken Social Scene and Jonny Marr. I really love #Manchester. And #brokensocialscene. ????????????

A post shared by beth redmond (@redbethmond) on May 23, 2017 at 3:23pm PDT

It's been a fucking terrible day. I can't begin to tell you how unbelievably life affirming, astonishing, and extraordinary Broken Social Scene were tonight. It was cathartic. I laughed, I danced, I cried. It was everything I needed. There was an unbelievable show of solidarity from the band and the crowd, something I'll never forget. They played 'Anthem for a 17 year old girl' to open, and the end line of 'now you're all gone got your make up on and you're not coming back' couldn't have been more poignant. The second to last song ended in a crowd chorus of 'be courageous' and it was all the feels. Manchester is a resilient place, we won't be beaten down. Fuck terrorism and all who act in its name. #westandtogether @alberthallmcr #brokensocialscene

A post shared by Rich Walker (@dickiewalker) on May 23, 2017 at 2:36pm PDT

Went to see Broken Social Scene and fucking Johnny Marr played as a guest! Manchester, ily 💗

A post shared by Jo (@nashualion) on May 23, 2017 at 2:46pm PDT