Concert Review: Sleigh Bells at The Observatory

Sleigh Bells have returned with new music after several years off and like any proper millennial, I was itching to be in that pit. Sonic energy, body pulsing, bones rattling—to no surprise, that’s precisely what they delivered, and then some. 

Led by original members Alexis Krauss (vocals) and Derek Miller (guitar), the show opened with “Badly” from their latest album Bunky Becky Birthday Boy. It was their choice to dive straight into Treats that set the night’s tone, though, and not just any song from their iconic debut album—an enthusiastic “Already?!?” shouted by someone nearby as “Infinity Guitar” tore through the venue and a wave of devil horns shot high up. Whether it was the ten-year-old atop their guardian’s shoulders or others around my parents' age, people were locked in and committed to whatever fun insanity was to unfold. The guitar raged, synths vibrated, and each unified head bang was more satisfying than the last.

What set this show apart though was the level of engagement, intimacy, and trust that Alexis radiated. She was incredibly generous with the crowd, all without batting an eye. Alexis didn’t go into the audience just once, she did so multiple times. With an unwavering smile, she shared one-on-one moments with fan after fan as she sang and held eye contact. If not that, then her arm was stretched out to lock fingers with whoever could reach. When Alexis wasn’t in the crowd, she was gleefully hanging over the pit’s barricade embracing those around her. So, it was only fitting that as Crown On the Ground closed the encore, Alexis would take it to the audience once again with a crowd surfing finale. 

After the show it was incredible to see how many people were in total awe, dumbstruck, and beaming, including myself. It was a night as wholesome as it was electric. Sleigh Bells was back, and cooler than ever.