After a two-year run, ODESZA tied a bow on The Last Goodbye era with an epic series of finale shows that were filled with surprises and more.
In 2022, rumblings of ODESZA’s return ignited their fanbase. A three-year hiatus following their acclaimed A Moment Apart album and tour left many wondering what was next for the duo. When they finally broke the silence and teased “The Last Goodbye,” some wondered if this was the end for ODESZA. “What do they mean, The Last Goodbye??” I remember asking.
Lucky for us, this cryptic message would reveal itself as the name of their lead single and next album. The campaign worked. Fans were locked, ready to usher in this new era for ODESZA. Featuring a sample from Bettye LaVette’s 1965 song “Let Me Down Easy,” somber orchestral elements, a reverb-soaked drop, and a funky bassline, the track was sonically ODESZA but just different enough that it piqued interest. ODESZA was back, and we couldn’t have been happier.
Following the full release of The Last Goodbye, ODESZA hit the road, bringing the album to life. For two years, their cinematic spectacle dazzled audiences across North America. They even appeared at major festivals, including Life is Beautiful, Outside Lands, and Bonnaroo. In January, ODESZA announced their run of finale shows in five cities to celebrate the era and draw it to a close.
The finale shows were an ode to the album and tour that brought monumental growth to ODESZA.
I was lucky enough to attend a finale in Los Angeles and Berkeley. Despite also having seen the tour three other times (yes, I know), the finales still brought surprises. Each show included 20-plus minutes of additional songs, including callbacks, “My Friends Never Die,” “How Did I Get Here,” “It’s Only” and “Kusanagi.” We also heard their remix of Porter Robinson’s “Divinity,” along with previously excluded tracks from The Last Goodbye – “I Can’t Sleep,” “North Garden,” and “Healing Grid.” The set was well-rounded, giving a journey through the time capsule of old and new songs that fans love. And the best part was that each finale show was unique in its surprises.
ODESZA’s unparalleled production never ceases to amaze with captivating visuals, pyrotechnics, and lighting. We were blown away by the string section, which added sweeping beauty to multiple parts of the set. Of course, the beloved drumline and horns section were there as well, alongside Charlie Houston, Mansionair, Naomi Wild, and Izzy Bizu, who lend their vocal talents. I’m never not amazed by the level of detail. It’s hard not to be moved witnessing this all come together.
The Last Goodbye finales left me with a sense of reminiscence and wonderment.
ODESZA spoke about the meaning behind The Last Goodbye, which came from introspection during the pandemic. We are a result of all the people and experiences that touch our lives. That never leaves us. The ones we love are always with us, so in a sense, there never really is a last goodbye. I think about the loved ones who’ve gone in the past few years, as well as the well-forged memories tied to ODESZA’s music, and it all brings deeper admiration.
There were sad undertones after the A Moment Apart finale. ODESZA deserved a break after years of non-stop touring, no doubt. But as a fan, it was an adjustment to go from the highs of the A Moment Apart tour to almost radio silence. This time around, even though they’re closing another chapter, it doesn’t feel as uncertain. ODESZA’s best days are still ahead. And I can’t wait to be there to experience it all.
