Alternative music is on the rise and I couldn't be any happier because this means that concerts and tours will be constant for quite some time. Because of this, many listeners of this genre will be exploring new horizons, making trips for the artists they are dedicated to, and hopefully trying to find new music as well.
As a lover of alternative and indie music, I have seen a copious amount of artists at many different venues. To be frank, I actually consider myself a concert-goer expert. Below are a couple of categories that I believe are important for those who are interested in attending an alternative concert in the future. All of the information I listed are based on my personal experiences and what I believe would be a great time for anyone!
Artists
Based on: sound/talent, experience, performance, and post-concert feels.
Finish Ticket
This band is currently one of my favorites after they opened for another concert I went to. I find that openers at the concerts you go to often appeal to your taste because they can connect or resonate with the artist you're there for. Finish Ticket's style is alternative indie with occasional rock for some of their songs. The best thing about small bands is that they aren't mainstream (knock on wood), the venues are small and very intimate, and you can have a chance to meet them at the end, like I did!
Recommended songs: Scavenger, Tranquilize, Bring the Rain (friend recommendation)
Imagine Dragons
I've seen Imagine Dragons two times now and I am preparing to see them a third time this November. There is no band that I have really connected to like this one, as I keep coming back to hear more and love all of their albums in full, which is very hard in most cases. Their alternative rock vibes have sprinkles of electronic beats and indie folk style that is so unique. Definitely one of my favorite bands ever, especially if Mom approves.
Recommended songs (condensed): Tiptoe, Amsterdam, Friction, I'm So Sorry, Hopeless Opus, Polaroid
IRONTOM
This band is fairly new to me, as I only discovered them a year ago after they opened for Finish Ticket, but man they're cool! The lead singer is eccentric and lets the music flow through him, as he dances across the stage and captures the audience's attention. Really - if you want to see a great performer see IRONTOM in concert! It's great to experience music that you love but also the performers love, too.
Recommended songs: Be Bold Like Elijah, More To Explore, Brain Go
SHAED
I guess this is a trend; SHAED is a band that performed as an opener for Bishop Briggs. At first, I was reluctant to have an open mind as I am super picky and am not a huge fan of female voices, but wow oh wow! Mix a soothing beat with electronic pad style and add a stellar voice from the lead singer and you get SHAED! Her voice is the same in studio as it is live.
Recommended songs: Perfume, Just Wanna See, The News
Fitz and the Tantrums
Fitz and the Tantrums are more pop-indie or neo-soul, however I believe they belong on this list because they touch upon alternative takes. This band is one of the best performances I've seen live and I was never disappointed. One of the few artists that actually dance and encourage the audience to drop everything and just let loose. Fitz's calm and eccentric behavior is a major contrast to Noelle's happy-go-lucky attitude.
Recommended songs: Spark, Complicated, Burn It Down
The 1975
No words for the 1975! Seriously! One of my favorites bands in history and they do not let you down live. They mix all of their music to make the concert an all-around great experience, especially with the lead singer's unique personality and reactions with the crowd. I'll remember the concert I went to forever, no joke. The 1975 is one of the few bands that I listened to even more than I did before I saw them live.
Recommended songs (condensed as well): Somebody Else, M.O.N.E.Y., She's American, She Way Out, Settle Down
Outfit: Rule of 3s
Comfortable
Don't wear something that will affect how you view a concert. This includes: heels, off the shoulder tops (if you plan on grooving with the music), shoes you've never worn, leather, etc. This is all my opinion, but I've had problems with these or have seen those experience it.
Photogenic
When I see someone I really love in concert, I want everyone to know! Due to this, I like to wear outfits that would not only highlight my happiness but my wardrobe for the event. Looking good and listening to good music is a wonderful combo.
Confident
Always always always wear something that makes you feel good about yourself. Being confident at a concert causes you to do things you might not have done before, like really listen and enjoy rather than worry about yourself or those invisible stares.
How to act
Be optimistic
Complaining or thinking the worst will not get you far. If you think there's a long line, or that you won't get a good general admission view, or that transportation will be a hassle later, then it might turn out that way. Take everything in stride and enjoy the most you can, as if you don't, the whole experience of the concert might be ruined.
Don't watch the clock
Rather than think of the time left of the concert and how it's quickly going by, think of it in the opposite manner. There is so much time left and what songs will be performed next? The glass is half-full not half-empty!
Stay off the phone
Simple decree: recording videos and being on your phone the whole concert will fog up your memory of this concert. Trust me. Maybe use it a couple of times for some photos/social media, but trust me, a phone in your pocket is the best way to go.
Enjoy yourself
Seriously. Don't worry about others, only yourself.
