ALY AND AJ AT THE FILLMORE SILVER SPRING

BY MARISSA MORRIS (SHE/HER)

New and old fans came together Saturday to witness sister duo Alyson and Amanda Michalka aka Aly and AJ. The band opened with the mellow tune from "Open to Something..." but that did not stop the crowd from cheering wildly as the sisters sang. After finishing the song, Aly informed the crowd that they would be performing all of the songs from their latest album With Love From as well as a mix of some older hits. The energy from the crowd amplified as we knew we were in for a treat. Aly and AJ did a wonderful job of curating the setlist to flow from soft and somber tunes to upbeat sounds that energized the crowd. In the middle of their set Aly took a moment to talk to the crowd about gun reform, an issue dear to their heart having survived a mass shooting. It was a touching moment and the duo was met with love and support from the audience. 

Highlights from the concert included their stripped down performance of "Slow Dancing" where they encouraged the audience to buddy up with someone nearby and dance together. The combination of the sweet song made the show feel more intimate. Of course when old hits were played such as "Potential Breakup Song," "Like Whoa," " Division," and "Rush.'' The crowd went crazy with nostalgia from the songs of their childhood. These hits were altered to fit their current indie sound while remaining true to the melody we all know and love. 

If you are an old or new fan, this is a tour you don't want to miss. As beautiful as they sound on their records, they sound even better live. It's clear the duo are trained vocalists and put passion into the songs they write and the harmonious sounds they create. All of the musicians in the band were incredible and the standing ovation they received was well deserved.