By Eden Savoy
On Saturday night, Susquehanna University’s campus pulsed with energy as Neon Trees delivered a performance exclusively for students in Weber Chapel for the spring concert.
The evening started off with Hayes Warner, the opening performer, who immediately commanded the stage. With a strong presence and genuine crowd engagement, Warner made the audience feel like an essential part of the show.
I had never heard her music before this evening, but her songs were energetic, and she displayed amazing vocal control. She has one of those voices that is extremely impressive to hear live. She dressed to match the part in an outfit that suited the vibe of her music and brightened her presence on stage.
Then came the main event, Neon Trees. Known for their hit songs “Everybody Talks” and “Animal,” these anthems made the crowd surge with excitement. Everyone could be heard singing along. Even their lesser-known music got a rise from the audience, and I couldn’t help but smile at the music.
However, the music wasn’t the only thing that brought the energy. Neon Trees’ lead singer, Tyler Glenn, was extremely interactive with audience members. He spoke directly to the crowd on multiple occasions, signed autographs and even recorded a video on a fan’s phone. Also, during the chorus of “Everybody Talks,” the band stopped playing and let the crowd sing, which had an extremely magical feel.
The lighting also played a huge role in setting the tone of the concert. The vibrant colors elevated the electric energy of the room and complimented the upbeat energy of the music from both artists. The visually dynamic experience helped keep the crowd captivated from beginning to end.
I’ve attended many concerts before, from huge venues filled with thousands of people to smaller areas where I could push my way to the front. What set this one apart from those was its intimate feel. The smaller setting and exclusive entry combined with the connection the artists formed with the audience made this one of the most engaging live experiences I have attended.
Overall, Neon Trees and Hayes Warner delivered a high-energy, interactive and thoroughly entertaining night for Susquehanna students.
