SWS & ATL: An Exhilarating Night

As I entered the Oakdale Theater making my way down to the pit of Sleeping With Sirens’ November concert, the opening act, “Neck Deep” was performing the iconic “Part of Me”- a hit released in 2012 as part of the band’s “Rain in July” album. Purple and white lights illuminated Ben and the band as fans sang along to much of the popular song. Neck Deep then rocked out to a few more songs as the crowd anxiously awaited the arrival of Sleeping With Sirens to the stage. When they finally arrived, the crowd surged with energy, screaming in praise and adoration of the band. They opened with “Kick Me,” an audience favorite. Bright lights flashed and a cloud of smoke rose as Kellin and the band performed the powerful fast-paced, piece. Sleeping With Sirens preformed messily, with the music being much louder than the vocals and Kellin throwing his microphone up in the air then catching it in the palm of his hand. Kellin dressed casually but edgy, wearing black skinny jeans, a gray leather jacket, and a ripped black tank top with a lightning bolt on the back, which he revealed when he took off his jacket right before singing “Tally it Up, Settle the Score” from the “Let’s Cheers to This” album. A few more favorites among the crowd included “Atlanta” and “The Strays,” to which everyone sang along. Although many songs were hits, some songs not everyone was into, such as “Gold” from their most recent album. The crowd visibly exuded more energy when Kellin and the band performed some of their more popular songs.

Once Sleeping with Sirens was done with their set, more waiting ensued for All Time Low. Neon green and red lights lit up their “Future Hearts” album logo as the band opened with “Kicking and Screaming” from their new album. Like Kellin, Alex was dressed casually in jeans and a tank top. The band performed clearly, with precise, bright vocals. Favorites included “Missing You” during which many cried and “Kids in the Dark,” when Alex threw several beach balls in the crowd which bounced from person to person.

Although many songs were from All Time Low’s latest, “Future Hearts,” some were oldies but goodies. All Time Low’s lead singer, Alex, gave the crowd a choice between two of their most well-known older songs: “Remembering Sunday” and “Therapy.” By audience choice, All Time Low performed “Therapy,” a slow, emotional song. During the concert, Alex also posted a selfie on a fan’s Snapchat story, making her beam with gratitude and shout excitedly. To close their program, All Time Low performed “Dear Maria Count Me In” which was truly magical as shiny confetti littered the floor and covered the crowd. Currently, Sleeping With Sirens and All Time Low are on tour in Europe, but the closest All Time Low concert you can catch is Feb. 20 in Los Angeles, Calif.