The popular rock band Neon Trees took on Tipitina’s on Friday, April 2, playing to a diverse crowd that ranged from Tulane first-years to senior New Orleans locals.
Neon Trees is an American alternative rock band from Provo, Utah. The quartet was formed in the early 2000s and consists of guitarist Chris Allen, drummer Elaine Bradley, bassist Branden Campbell and lead vocalist Tyler Glenn.
Before the dynamic “Everybody Talks” band dramatically entered the stage for their sold-out show, the Austin-based multi-genre band Night Cap opened the venue. Night Cap, an indie-rock band consisting of members Ryan King, Jake Bomgaars, Alex Alfonso, Adrian Ayala and Stijn Dobbelaere took the stage to entertain the throng, delivering a captivating performance.
The five Night Cap band members were on stage for around an hour, and it was a delightful auditory experience for both those familiar with them and those hearing their music for the first time. The group played both old and new music, including their new song, “Dark Eyes,” released on the same day as the concert.
After Night Cap successfully riled up the audience for the main gig of the night, Neon Trees entered the stage, with lead singer Tyler Glenn making a particularly memorable entrance. As he waltzed onto the stage, Glenn brought an electric energy that immediately rubbed off on the audience.
The pit stop in New Orleans is a part of the band’s current U.S. tour for their 2024 album “Sink Your Teeth In.” The setlist included both songs from their new album and pop earworms, like “Everybody Talks” and “Teenager In Love.” It was a good mix for die-hard fans and those who just know their hit songs.
I was only familiar with a few of their most popular songs before the concert, but that did not take away from my enjoyment at all. The incredible acoustics — especially Bradley’s captivating drum playing — combined with their groovy moves and the genuine passion the band exuded. The crowd’s energy was infectious, and it was exciting to be a part of it.
Apart from the incredible musical talent and powerhouse vocals, a truly memorable part of the concert was Glenn’s intermission during the last moments of the concert. Before the booming “Everybody Talks,” the lead singer vulnerably explained the meaning behind the song to the bustling crowd.
Utah citizens are often automatically assumed to be associated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and Neon Trees members are no different — or at least they used to be. In Glenn’s heartfelt monologue, he described his feeling of alienation from the church following his coming out as gay, as homophobia is particularly strong in Mormon spaces.
Glenn’s background in the church is part of the meaning behind the popular sing-along. As the ex-Latter-day Saint explained, he was a college student when rumors started circulating about his sexuality. Glenn explained that “Everybody Talks” is about feeling boxed in by gossip and like his identity was forced down his throat when he was not yet ready to embrace it.
These profound interludes also came with some profanity. Glenn explicitly told the audience multiple times to “shut the f— up” and “pay attention to the f—— stage” during his intensely personal speech, and it was not always clear whether it was just a case of extreme sarcasm or merely his strong and opinionated personality shining through.
Apart from these moments of intimidation, Friday night symbolized a collective desire in the diverse audience to have fun and forget about life, even if just for a few hours, with ambient music and enthusiastic performers.
