Aly and AJ – The Majestic – 5.29.19

Long before the Jonas Brother’s released “Sucker” and took over the internet with nostalgia, Aly and AJ released Ten Years in 2018. The album was the first since 2007.

Earlier this year, the Michalka sisters released Sanctuary, an EP that shows maturity in sound, content and image.

The album is reminiscent of 80’s pop, while containing notes of soft, indie vibes (think Kacey Musgrave.) Rather than songs about youthful crushes and angsty breakups, the lyrical content of Sanctuary turns a focus to self reflections, social issues and identity.

The audience that filled the Majestic in Detroit the night of their show was a welcoming crowd. Men and women talked about “when they first listened to Aly and AJ” and reminisced on their adolescent lives.

As part of their cross country tour, Aly and AJ paired with the Trevor Project to raise awareness of the LGBTQ+ community, and prompted fans to sign a petition to end conversion therapy.

The girls opened their set with “Church,” and continued into “Star Maps,” eager to show off their new sound. However, the two did not leave fans disappointed. Included in their set was old time favorites like “Like Whoa,” “Chemicals React” and “Rush.”

A surprise for fans was a beautiful rendition of Kacey Musgraves’ “Slow Burn.”

The entire room sang out in unison with Aly and AJ as soon as “Potential Break Up Song” kicked in. There was a sense of unity in the room. No matter where anyone was at this point in their lives, everyone in the room could remember the words to one of their favorite songs growing up.

Opening for Aly and AJ on tour is Armors, a southern Cali based band. Their debut EP Who’s Gonna Love Me (When I’m Not Young) can be heard here.

For remaining tour dates and more information on Aly and AJ, visit their Facebook.

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Aly and AJ

Armors