AJR with Madilyn Mei, Valley, Cavetown, and Goth Babe at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville, Indiana

It was a cool, comfortable evening on July 31st, 2025 when AJR brought their “Somewhere in the Sky” tour to Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville, Indiana.  The indie pop band, comprised of brothers Adam, Jack, and Ryan Met, came without Adam. Adam has stepped away from select shows to focus on his book and advocacy for climate, while also contributing to the TIME100 Climate list. His absence did not hinder the show whatsoever. I promise you that! AJR had four really neat bands open up for them.  Madilyn Mei, Valley, Cavetown, and Goth Babe.  

Madilyn Mei, who gathered popularity from showing off her uniquely whimsical indie-pop/folk-pop music to TikTok and YouTube in the early 2020’s, popped out first.  Her voice was cool and calm, just like the perfect temperature for this outdoor show.  She sounds sweet and mysterious.  Her set was a simple, laid back musical extravaganza that I would recommend if you’re looking for something relaxing to listen to. 

After a short break, Valley was on stage next. This indie pop band, hailing from Toronto, was nominated for Breakthrough Group of the Year  2022 JUNO award.  Rightfully so.  The band made up of Karah James, Rob Laska, Alex Dimauro and Feurd are each individually fantastic musicians and come together to produce some phenomenal sounds. 

Next came Cavetown, with Robin, who is also a YouTuber, but also record producer. He’s got the talent to play ukulele, guitar, kazoo, keyboard, among others as well as give chill, calming vocals.  Millions of people follow the YouTube and Spotify accounts.  It was obvious that many of the people of the crowd came specifically to see Cavetown.  His style is immensely creative and quirky.  

Goth Babe, solo indie pop project of Griff Washburn, who also has possession of incredible talent, was the last opening act to come out before AJR.   Griff spends a lot of time with nature and advocating for it.  His music has a very healing effect.  I noticed some people in the crowd with wet eyes, and faces that would not turn away from the stage.  Griff created the vibe of a peaceful forest, adorned with a gentle stream, as the crowd held arms up and swayed to the beats. 

It was time for AJR (American pop-electropop) to take the stage, but not before sending a message across the screens from back-stage.  This immediately brought comedy to the show. The whole amphitheater was packed.  Fans held signs, lots of signs.  They wore handmade bracelets, and loads of AJR t-shirts were spotted.  So many families with children and people of all ages were in the crowd.  Smiles were plastered across all faces.  The second the first note dropped, I noticed more than a few fans immediately sobbing with excitement and wonderment.  

The show was one of the best productions for entertainment in live music that I have had the pleasure of witnessing.  Not only is the music amazing, catchy and loved, the live performance was a treat all in its own.  Let’s just skip to the good part…  From Jack interacting with himself on a giant screen, to a little friendly embarrassment between brothers,  to fans getting on stage for some fun competition, continued comedy throughout the show, and even Noblesville High School’s marching band, I’m not sure how it could have been done any better.  They even came out and sat within the crowd to play.  The people went absolutely wild. There was a trumpet, heck, a whole dang marching band! (Who does that?!)  I’m going to keep it short and sweet, because I do not want to spoil the show if you have not yet been.  

AJR left everyone in Noblesville, Indiana, and I’m sure the rest of the tour beforehand, WAY LESS SAD that evening.  I’ll just go ahead and say it, you’re going to be sad if you miss the show coming to your town.