An absolute highlight of tonight’s FireAid — before it was even over — was the comet-like reappearance of the remaining members of Nirvana onstage together playing the band’s songs again. The lineup included drummer Dave Grohl, bassist Krist Novoselic, rhythm guitarist Pat Smear and a rotating front line featuring St. Vincent, Kim Gordon and Joan Jett, each stepping in for the late Kurt Cobain. But it was the final frontwoman who brought the house down. As the band readied its last song, Novoselic walked to the mic and introduced Violet Grohl, the drummer’s 18-year-old daughter. A novelty to be sure, but when they launched into the opening chords of “All Apologies,” it became something else entirely. The younger Grohl eased into a hypnotic version of the now classic tune with an assurance that belied her age.
Pop stars, first responders, rock stars and those who’ve lost everything in the devastating LA-area wildfires came together for FireAid, a massive benefit concert Thursday that combined spectacular performances with moving storytelling from survivors and reminders of the destruction. In a night full of surprises, a reunion of Nirvana — fronted by St. Vincent, Kim Gordon and Joan Jett in the place of the late Kurt Cobain — tops the list. They launched into “Breed,” “School” and “Territorial Pissings” respectively, inspired and unexpected choices. Drummer Dave Grohl’s daughter, Violet, then emerged on stage for “All Apologies.”
If the 40 years since Live Aid have taught us anything, it’s that musicians will rally around for a charity gig when needed, particularly if the word “…Aid” is part of the title. And so FireAid – billed as “an evening of music and solidarity” – saw performances from a dizzying array of musicians including Joni Mitchell, Pink, Rod Stewart, Stevie Nicks and, er, Earth, Wind & Fire. It also saw a surprise, brutal and brilliant Nirvana reunion, with a quartet of female vocalists – St Vincent, Kim Gordon, Joan Jett and Violet Grohl (Dave’s daughter) – taking over Kurt Cobain’s vocal duties (on Breed, School, Territorial Pissings and All Apologies, respectively).
