Album Review: “Last Young Renegade” by All Time Low

Hey, so it’s been like three years since I wrote an album review on this blog.

Today that changes.

I’ve been a pretty huge All Time Low fan now for nearly ten years and in that time I’ve claimed time and time again that they always puts out solid work, that they are a band that never disappoints. Unfortunately, today that changes as well.

When I heard that All Time Low were switching from Hopeless Records to Fueled By Ramen, I was neither surprised nor concerned, but when the band’s first single for the album, “Dirty Laundry” dropped a hint of concern creeped in. Track reviews for the song were cautious at best and the song was a bit more low key and pop driven than I would have anticipated from the band. Ultimately, though, the track really grew on me, and when the namesake track “Last Young Renegade” dropped and oozed of familiarity, I was a bit more hopeful that this album would show the band continuing to progress their sound without forgetting who they were. I didn’t exactly get what I bargained for.

I’m not the kind of fan that expects nor even desires for a band to stay caught in the sound that got them noticed. I fully endorse bands pushing the limits of what they are capable of creatively even if the risks they take aren’t popular. The sound shift on Last Young Renegade is not what makes this an okay record at best. In fact, All Time Low moving forward with a more pop and less guitar driven sound is far from shocking. They’ve always had a strong pop sensibility so I’m not offended, like so many others, that they’ve continued this trend. I am let down, however, by this album’s lack of heart, lack of power and overall lifelessness.

The problem with Last Young Renegade is not that the songs are bad, they’re just lackluster and kind of dead-on-arrival.

Like I said before, I really did grow to love the track “Dirty Laundry” with it’s haunting and catchy melody and it’s slow burn crescendo that proves that this band is capable of making strong, explosive pop punk tunes. I also really enjoy the self-deprecating “Life of the Party”. “Last Young Renegade” is a catchy classic All Time Low tune as well. I definitely get fangirl type feels with the Tegan and Sara feature on “Ground Control”. But, ultimately this album feels like All Time Low kind of phoned it in this time around rather than providing the epic concept album the marketing promised. I’ll probably still enjoy listening to this album in the long run, but mostly it just makes me want to play Don’t Panic for the thousandth time.

2015 Favorites

Yes, I know, I’m like a month late on this, but this is blog tradition I refuse to let go of, so here we go! Here’s everything from 2015 that I need to give a shout out to…

Favorite Albums:

3. Meg Myers – Sorry

I have to blame my husband for this one. He got me listening to Myers earlier in the year, and he’s the reason I purchased her Make A Shadow EP. He got me interested, but this album sold me on her music. Myers offers up a sound that is both angsty and catchy with Sorry. Now I just want more of this Meg Myers goodness.

2. Never Shout Never – Black Cat

I’ve been a fan of Never Shout Never for some time now (5 years), and after a few years of “meh” from them, Black Cat is everything I could have wanted and then some. This album was so fun and infectious and was my favorite thing to dance to in 2015.

1. The Maine – American Candy

I’m pretty sure I gush and get obsessed all over again every time The Maine puts out new music. American Candy is no exception. This album was a brilliant blend of the band’s past and present, and I love it beginning to end. There was no other album that could have possibly taken to top spot this year.

Favorite New (To Me) Bands:

See how I removed the need for a disclaimer this year with a clever title?

3. As It Is

Photo by Annette Hansen via Instagram (@christieroad91)

As a fan of Patty Walter’s YouTube channel, I was of course excited about his band’s full-length debut this year. That excitement paid off because the album was easily another one of my favorites from this year. As It Is is one of the few bands that gives me exactly what I want from pop punk music: angsty and poppy.

2. Beautiful Bodies

Photo by Annette Hansen via Instagram (@christieroad91)

Beautiful Bodies was honestly the only band that stuck from my Alternative Press “100 Bands” search. That is mostly because once I found them I didn’t bother to look into any other bands. And my interest has nothing do to with the fact that they’re from Missouri and the lead singer is an old family friend…okay, maybe a little. But, seriously their music is electrifying and catchy and they are a force to be reckoned with on the stage. Definitely one of my favorite live acts from this year and maybe ever.

1. Marmozets

I remember seeing their album The Weird and Wonderful Marmozets pop up on a lot of top albums of 2014 lists, but it wasn’t until 2015 that I finally gave the album a listen, and oh my ears! That album deserves every bit of good buzz it has gotten because it was almost impossible for me to stop listening to it on repeat. Their sound doesn’t really fit the mold of what I usually listen to, it’s gritty and a little off-the-wall, but it was so infectious. Definitely an unexpected new favorite, I mean, I’ve only spent the last year begging for more.

Favorite Concerts:

3. All Time Low (5/14/15)

Photo by Annette Hansen via Instagram (@christieroad91)

All Time Low are definitely one of my favorite bands to catch live. Getting to see them on the tenth anniversary of seeing Green Day for the first time (that being my first real rock concert) was wonderfully fitting.

2. Taking Back Sunday (8/7/15)

Photo by Annette Hansen via Instagram (@christieroad91)

The first and only other time I saw Taking Back Sunday was at Warped Tour in 2012 when the real feel was over 100 degrees. I left that show during the last song because I felt sick, and I felt horrible about leaving early. So this time was my redemption and it was perfect…minus the strict venue that is.

1. The Maine (9/4/15)

Photo by Annette Hansen via Instagram (@christieroad91)

The Maine is one of my other favorite bands to hit up when they come to town, and I was floored when they announced their Free For All Tour. They ended up playing about 45 minutes away so I was able to take part in that experience. It was so low-key and intimate that it made it unlike any other show I’d been to in the last year.

Favorite Movies:

This was definitely the hardest list to make and I’m still not 100 percent sure about my choices, but here I go anyways…

3. “Interstellar”

I’m not sure was it was about this 3 hour long scientific film that I just couldn’t shake over the year. I was really hesitant to put it on my list, but this movie was pretty unforgettable for me. The story was so intriguing and heart wrenching, and I even enjoyed the scientific aspect of this film. When I had to think of films I enjoyed in 2015 “Interstellar” continued to stick out in my mind.

2. “Ant-Man”

I don’t know If I have a lot to say about this movie. It was fun, I really enjoyed the characters, and I was thoroughly entertained by it. After being disappointed by “Guardians of the Galaxy” in 2014 (I know, unpopular opinion), it was refreshing to be excited by this comic relief of a Marvel film.

1. “Kingsman: The Secret Service”

This was the easiest pick on this list. This movie took me completely by surprise. I remember renting it so my husband could watch it. I didn’t even watch the first 10 minutes with him, but I walked in, sat down, and was unable to get back up. “Kingsman” is over-the-top, hilarious, but still has a lot of heart. I loved the humor, and I especially loved the characters. I loved the characters like I love book characters. I don’t think that’s even happened before. Hands down, this was my favorite movie of 2015.

Favorite TV Shows I Watched in 2015:

3. “iZombie”/“The Flash”

I know, I know, that’s two shows, but I couldn’t choose between the two. I’d like to point out that The CW has become quite the hotspot for great TV, and their content keeps getting better. Both shows have a great sense of humor, great story telling, and great characters. I couldn’t ask for more from a show.

2. “Community”

To say that I became obsessed with this show in 2015 would be an understatement. I watched several seasons (yes, I said seasons) in one day. This takes my weird fondness of Joel McHale to a whole new level. I couldn’t get enough of this show. It’s so unique and funny and, for me, it was everything in 2015.

1. “Gilmore Girls”

This list would be flat out inaccurate if I did not include “Gilmore Girls.” I spent around half the year watching all seven seasons. This show tested my emotional strength, but it was so worth it! Even I need my girly shows, and this one was perfection. Is it okay if I’m team Dean/Jess/Logan?

Favorite Books:

This was probably the next hardest list to come up with, but ultimately I prevailed.

3. “Red Queen” by Victoria Aveyard

Photo by Annette Hansen

I know this was a pretty hit or miss book for a lot of people, but for me, despite its flaws, I devoured this book. I was pretty unaware of a lot of the hype around this book at the time that I read it, so that probably kept my opinion from being tainted. I’m glad for that, because I really did enjoy this book! I liked the subtle mix of fantasy and dystopian, I enjoyed the characters, and for some reason I was really sold on the love story. If the hype is holding you back, I suggest reading it and seeing for yourself.

2. “These Broken Stars” by Amie Kaufman and Meagan Spooner

Photo by Annette Hansen

I feel like 2015 was the year that caught me off guard because this is a book I would’ve never expected to end up on this list. I read this for my first Goodreads reading club pick. I decided to join in since the book was one I was familiar with and it was only 99 cents on e-book (at the time). I adored this romance and I loved that this story kept me on the edge of my seat. This was definitely an unexpected gem.

1. “Paper Towns” by John Green

Photo by Annette Hansen

I’d wanted to read this book for so long, as in since 2008. I’m glad I finally got to read this one because it was everything that I hoped for and so much more. To everyone that put this book down because Margo is a “Manic Pixie Dream Girl”, you should really finish it because you missed the point. The mystery of this book kept me reading till the wee hours, but the heart and the message of this story are what made it memorable. I think we all get caught up in making people we admire or have a crush on into something more than what they really are or could ever be, and I think this story really illustrates why that can be an unfair thing to do to someone. I really think “Paper Towns” offers a story that is fun and powerful and impossible to forget.

Favorite YouTubers:

This year I’m doing this section a bit differently. I couldn’t really come up with specific YouTubers that stood out for me, but there was a corner of YouTube that I felt was worth mentioning, and that is Booktube. Booktube is essentially the community of book vloggers on YouTube, and at the end of 2015 I was completely invested in it. It reinvigorated my love of YouTube and my love of books so I needed to give the community as a whole a shout out.

Here are some of my favorite Booktubers:

Jesse The Reader

Ariel Bissett

Thoughts On Tomes

Confessions of a Concert Junkie

On Thursday I went to go see All Time Low for the fourth time (so two of those were at Warped Tour, but it still counts). A few days before the show I had a crazy realization. I was going to see All Time Low on May 14, 2015. May 14^th rang a bell and it only took me a moment to realize why. On May 14, 2005 I went to see Green Day for the first time. It was my first real rock concert. And 10 years later, on the dot, what am I doing? Going to another rock concert. It was perfect.

All Time Low at The Pageant St. Louis May 14, 2015. Photo by @christie_road91

 

I sat outside the pageant on Thursday, headphones on (listening to The Early November if you’re wondering), coffee in hand, I was so relaxed in that moment. I was a pro at this. I sat there confident and calm and I couldn’t help but remember my recently realized anniversary. 10 years before this moment I was 13, going to see my favorite band in the whole world and pretty much ready to puke with nerves. I snickered a bit at how much had changed.

And let’s be real here, a lot has changed. I’ve done things over the last ten years that at 13 I only dreamed about. I’ve been to nearly 50 concerts (49 if we’re being specific) and I’ve met 28 different bands/artists. These were the things I would hear about people doing, but I never could figure out how they accomplished such a feat.  Now I know how easy it can actually be.

I always had a love for music and for the community surrounding it, but back when I was still a newbie it terrified me. I didn’t think I was cool enough to actually fit in there. Sometimes I still don’t feel even close to cool enough, but I have found my place. When the idea of home still seemed imaginary to me I found a home in music, a home in going to shows, meeting bands and making new friends. For a good chunk of my life music felt like one of the only stable things.

On May 14 2005, I stood outside the Municipal Auditorium wearing a green t-shirt and black jeans (because those were Green Day’s colors, right?) looking around thinking I’d never have a place in this world that I so wanted to be a part of. And on May 14, 2015 I sat outside The Pageant sipped on my coffee and thought about how I wish I could tell my 13-year-old self that I was being totally silly. Anywhere where the music was good was where I belonged.

10 years later and I still have that stupid shirt.

So here’s to an awesome 10 years of being totally addicted to going to shows. Hopefully there will be many, many more.

If you like this blog, check me out on social media and give me a follow. Also if you’re ever seeking concert advice, I’ve got plenty to give: either shoot and email to me at thetracksatchristieroad@gmail.com or send me an ask on my Tumblr!

Also check out my sweet instagram photos from All Time Low:

#statechamps opening for #alltimelow tonight at the #pageant #stl

#tonightalive opening for #alltimelow at the #pageant #stl

Another one of #tonightalive from last night. #alltimelow #thepageant #stl

#issues opening for #alltimelow at the #pageant #stl

And of course #alltimelow at the #pageant #stl. More to come.

Jack last night. #alltimelow #thepageant #stl

Alex and #cassadeepope singing #RememberingSunday. #alltimelow #thepageant #stl

Alex and #cassadeepope singing #RememberingSunday. #alltimelow #thepageant #stl

2014 Favorites

Favorite 2014 Albums:

3. The Pretty Reckless – Going To Hell

The Pretty Reckless have restored my faith in heavy music this year. Their sophomore album is sexy, edgy and fun. This was an easy pick as one of my favorite albums this year.

2. I Fight Dragons – The Near Future

I put a lot of faith in this album considering I was one of the many backers behind it. I Fight Dragons has never disappointed and The Near Future is no exception to this. Everything about this album is catchy and uplifting and it lived up to every expectation I’ve had in the last year and a half.

1. PVRIS – White Noise

PVRIS was a band I gave an honest shot this year and it really paid off (I’m mean they did land a spot on two of these lists). They perfectly blend rock ‘n’ roll and electronic laced pop on their debut album. This is everything I wanted in music in 2014. Nailed it!

Favorite New Bands:

Same disclaimer as last year: While all of these bands are newer bands, I know they didn’t just form this year, and not all of their debut full length albums came out this year (Echosmith’s came out last year). These are bands I just started listening to a lot this year.

3. This Wild Life

@christie_road91: “Meeting more people #ThisWildLife #WarpedTour2014”

One of my many discoveries from my AP’s 100 Bands You Need to Know and one of my favorite new bands from this year. Their music is chill and made up of great melodies. I may have had to buy their album twice this year, but it’s not like I minded.

2. Echosmith

@christie_road91: “#Echosmith #WarpedTour2014”

Echosmith has made it clear that this is probably not the only favorites list they will be featured on this year. Finally a band that gets regular airplay that truly deserves it! They are young and talented and I can’t wait to see what they do next!

1. PVRIS

@christie_road91: “#PVRIS was so incredible! Jamming to #WhiteNoise now.”

Um…let’s just note that they’ve gotten two nods on my favorites list. You can refer to my previous nod, but seriously good job in 2014, PVRIS!

 

Favorite Concerts Attended:

3. Tonight Alive – 11/10/14

@christie_road91: “She’s lovely. #TonightAlive #ReadyRoom #STL”

Best birthday present to myself since last year (aka: I went and saw The Swellers for my birthday last year). I didn’t even have to stay for the real headliner to have a good time. It only took PVRIS and Tonight Alive to blow my mind.

2. All Time Low – 4/6/14

Seriously, this was the most fun I’d had at a concert in quite some time. All Time Low are not only a joy to listen to, but a joy to see live. I would do it again in a heartbeat.

1. Monumentour – 7/6/14

I really feel like I don’t need to elaborate here. I met Fall Out Boy, like all of them. I was front row. It was shear perfection in a single night. Well…if we can just forget about blowing a fuse in my car afterwards that is, but yeah let’s just forget about that, okay. It was perfect.

 

Favorite Shows I Watched:

3. “Malcolm in the Middle”

I used to watch this show every morning before school, so as soon as it was on Netflix I needed to see the whole thing. Thank you to “Breaking Bad” and Netflix, because this show is sitcom gold.

2. “Breaking Bad”

My friends begged me to watch this show for a long time. Eventually my fiancé and I caved and gave it a watch. It really is as addicting and well done as everyone says it is. Totally worth being a part of the crowd for.

1. “Orange is the New Black”

This one was kind of like “Breaking Bad.” I kept hearing people talk about and finally I had to know why. I love, love, love it. I love how funny, serious and sweet it can be. I love knowing everyone’s story. I just love it!

 

Favorite Books I’ve Read:

3. “The Raven Boys” by Maggie Stiefvater

The reason this is only the #3 spot is because I’m actually still reading this book, but I’m already in love with it. It plays with my love of the supernatural and it’s written by Maggie Stiefvater, which just means it’s beautifully written.

2. “Mockingjay” by Suzanne Collins

I know a lot of people who really didn’t like this book. I honestly don’t understand why. I thought this book was sad, but true to the ugliness of revolution. It constantly had you wondering who to trust. Plus, the Katniss, Peeta and Gale love triangle wasn’t like the typical teen novel; she really could have picked either one and I didn’t know who she would end up with till the end.

1. “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky

This book was just so touching and easy to relate to. It’s a true outsiders story full of high school nostalgia. I found it charming from beginning to end.

 

Favorite 2014 Movies:

3. “Maleficent”

I loved this movie. While I do like it when my villains are just good old-fashioned, evil villains, this story showed a completely different side of this traditional fairy tale. It took everything you knew from the original and twisted it and told a beautiful tale of motherly love.

2. “The Lego Movie”

This movie was super cute and well orchestrated. I won’t spoil anything, but the imaginative twist ending was the best part. This level of imagination makes it the kind of movie I would want to show my future kids.

1. “If I Stay”

I loved If I Stay despite its imperfections. This movie adaptation of my favorite book may not have been as great as its source material, but it was still musical, beautiful and touching.

 

Favorite Youtubers:

3. LoeyLane

Plus sized, gorgeous and does awesome make-up tutorials? I’m sold. Here’s her WordPress blog.

2. Jarrod Alonge

He makes funny videos about alternative rock. A true one-of-a-kind on my subscriptions list.

1. Emma Blackery

She funny, she’s british, she’s a great singer and I honestly can’t get enough of her videos this year.

So there you have it! Those are my favorite things from 2014! What were some of your favorite things from this year? Let me know in the comments. Do forget to keep checking back and to follow me on my social media.

A Year in Concert Photos 2014

+ Update:

Hey guys! I know it’s been awhile since I last posted, but I promise it was for good reasons. The big reason? That’ll be something I will disclose at a later time. But on top of that I’ve had to nail down some final things with my wedding, hell, I still need to nail down some final things with my wedding. I mostly just wanted to say that this absence was not because I wanted to stop posting, but I had to prioritize a few things and needed to take some time off. Regardless, I’m back and wanted to share with you the awesome year I’ve had in the form of concert photos!

Check out last year’s photos!

Dead Leaf Echo – March 9, 2014

STL band Versuch opening for Dead Leaf Echo at the Firebird.

STL band Versuch opening for Dead Leaf Echo at the Firebird.

Dead Leaf Echo had actually invited me to take pictures and write about their show for my school paper.

They didn’t use normal lighting for the show, so while it was hard to take good pictures the few I got were pretty cool.

Rainbow lights!

Dead Leaf Echo and Versuch Take Stage at Firebird

All Time Low – April 6, 2014

My instagram pic of Handguns. They were really cool guys and their Nerf Guns with the tiger’s blood are pretty sweet! (@christie_road91: “#Handguns last night.”)

@christie_road91: “#Manoverboard last night.”

Let’s just say I was pretty excited at this point. It was my 3rd time seeing All Time Low, 1st time not at Warped Tour. (@christie_road91: “So this was my night 😀 #AllTimeLow”)

Can’t really explain it, but I love this photo. I really like to take pictures of other people taking pictures.

Remembering Sunday: All Time Low 2014

Pointfest – May 10, 2014

Can we just say “never again.” (@christie_road91: “#Pointfest2014 #VWASTL”)

My Belated Thoughts on Pointfest 2014

Warped Tour – July 2, 2014

@christie_road91: “This is how I started my morning at #WarpedTour2014! #TheMaine”

This was my first time seeing Saves The Day since Chris Conley had pink hair. (@christie_road91: “#SavesTheDay #WarpedTour2014”)

@christie_road91: “#Echosmith #WarpedTour2014”

Third time’s the charm! (@christie_road91: “And again #TheMaine #WarpedTour2014”)

This holds a high level of bragging rights in certain circles. (@christie_road91: “I got to meet these guys too #SavesTheDay #WarpedTour2014”)

You can’t have summer without Less Than Jake. (@christie_road91: “#LessThanJake are always such a blast! #WarpedTour2014”)

Seriously I think Warped Tour exposed me to all of my new favorite bands. PVRIS has blown my mind this year! (@christie_road91: “#PVRIS #WarpedTour2014”)

Love them. Love this pic. ❤ (@christie_road91: "#TheMaine #WarpedTour2014")

Seriously, though, favorite new bands of 2014 (@christie_road91: “#ThisWildLife #WarpedTour2014”)

@christie_road91: “#Bayside #WarpedTour2014”

@christie_road91: “Meeting more people #ThisWildLife #WarpedTour2014”

@christie_road91: “#NeckDeep #WarpedTour2014”

This photo shows exactly how cool the band and fan connection is (@christie_road91: “#WeAreTheInCrowd #WATIC #WarpedTour2014”

Concert Survival Guide #3: Warped Tour Edition

Monumentour – July 6, 2014

@christie_road91: #NewPolitics #Monumentour #VWASTL”

Hayley Williams is a goddess! (@christie_road91: “#Paramore #Monumentour #VWASTL”)

Again, a goddess (@christie_road91: “#Paramore #monumentour #VWASTL”)

Just Patrick’s face (@christie_road91: “#FallOutBoy #Monumentour #VWASTL”)

@christie_road91: “#FallOutBoy #monumentour #VWASTL”

“Saturday.” Enough said (@christie_road91: “#FallOutBoy #Monumentour #VWASTL”)

Summer Memories with Monumentour

The Pretty Reckless – October 23, 2014

@christie_road91: “#CrashMidnight”

@christie_road91: “A sweet moment in rock ‘n’ roll #AdelitasWay #ThePrettyReckless #ThePageantSTL”

@christie_road91: “#ThePrettyReckless hit the stage #ThePageantSTL” instagram @christie_road91

@christie_road91: “#TaylorMomsen of #ThePrettyReckless #ThePageantSTL”

I can’t lie, my inner “Gossip Girl” fangirl came out in that moment (@christie_road91: “Me and #TaylorMomsen of #ThePrettyReckless at #ThePageantSTL”)

Concert Survival Guide #4: Fall, Taking Chances and The Pretty Reckless

Tonight Alive – November 10, 2014

(I titled this Tonight Alive because I skipped Mayday Parade…I know I’m horrible.)

@christie_road91: “#PVRIS was so incredible! Jamming to #WhiteNoise now.”

I have to give these guys props for hopping up on stage being sick as dogs. Their misery was clear, but they held it together (@christie_road91: “#MajorLeague are a bunch of troopers. #GetWellSoon”)

A cool moment during Major League’s set (@christie_road91: “Those phones made a lot of light. #MajorLeague #ReadyRoom”)

Finally got to see Tonight Alive, and near my birthday nonetheless (@christie_road91: “The whole reason. #TonightAlive.”)

@christie_road91: “#TonightAlive #ReadyRoom #STL”

@christie_road91: “More. #TonightAlive #ReadyRoom #STL”

@christie_road91: “She’s lovely. #TonightAlive #ReadyRoom #STL”

So that was my show-tastic year in 2014! If you’d like to check out more photos give me a follow on my instagram! If you want to see more posts like this give me a follow on here or on my social media!

Why I Love All Time Low

My awesome All Time Low hat. Best Profile pic ever!

Hello readers! I would like you to meet Obsessed Annette. This is the person I have become as the week since the All Time Low concert I attended has progressed. I don’t know exactly what it is about concerts that turns me into a fangirlish (yes I’m deciding that “fangirlish” is a word) fiend, but I think it has something to do with post-concert depression and the need to cling to anything related to that wonderful night. So yeah, my brain has pretty much been in All Time Low Land all week. In honor of this predicament I have decided to resurrect the “Why I Love…” blog (remember that one I did about The Swellers?). So here it is, my reasons why I love All Time Low:

“I remember when they were just a little band playing Warped Tour back in 2007 and I saw them and they played ‘Dammit’ by Blink 182 and it was awesome” –Annette Schaefer

All Time Low during Warped 2007 in Maryland Heights, Mo.

I’m going to risk it and sound like a hipster here: I liked All Time Low before they were really cool. Okay, they were kind of cool when I started liking them. It’s not like I got into them as early as Put Up or Shut Up or anything, but I at least liked them before they were on MTV.

I first heard the name All Time Low on either some kind of Warped Wednesday thing or an episode of Steven’s Untitled Rock Show or maybe it was a Warped Wednesday episode of SURS…I don’t know. I watched it and well it didn’t leave much of a mark, but it left their name in my head. Then not too long after that, I went to the 2007 Warped Tour, which was only my second one, and I wound up seeing their set. I was waiting around to catch Boys Like Girls and All Time Low happened to be playing right before them. I actually watched and took some pictures and even sang along to their cover of Blink 182’s “Dammit.” This time I kept them in mind.

I can officially say that All Time Low is the only reason I have ever bought anything at Holister Co. Why was I even in there you ask? Probably to annoy the workers because, you know, Fat people aren’t supposed to shop there because we’re a bunch of ugos, but the reason isn’t the point. I went in there, sometime within a year of seeing All Time Low, and weirdly enough they were selling the band’s first full length album So Wrong, It’s Right and I decided to buy it. From the summer of 2008 into the early parts of my junior year (fall 2008) I was obsessed with this album. I even tried to memorized the whole thing, although, I only memorized about half. After that, they pretty became one of my go-to bands.

“All Time Low fans need to calm their panties.” –Annette Schaefer

All Time Low during Warped Tour 2012 in Maryland Heights, Mo.

I have now been an All Time Low fan for nearly seven years. I own all of their albums, I’ve seen them live three times now, and I often giggle with glee when read their silly tweets. I also realize that I’m on the older end of the spectrum in their fan base; I mean, I spent a good chunk of my time in line at their show talking to girls nearly ten years younger than me! Some may even think I’m a bit immature for still listening to them and loving them so much because, as my suitemate put it, they’re kind of considered a “high school” band. But I know I’m not alone here! There are plenty 20-something All Time Low fans; I’ve met several of you! And you know what? We’re not immature or weird or silly for liking or even loving them…okay maybe we are all of those things, but who cares!

“I don’t think I’ve ever laughed so hard at concert before in my life.” –Annette Schaefer

All Time Low in Columbia, Mo on the Love Like War Tour 2014.

Okay, so let’ get to the point of this blog: why do I love All Time Low? I love them because they’re willing to not take themselves too seriously. They seem to remember that part of what’s great about making music for a living is that it’s a job where you can still have fun. I love that I don’t have to feel too deep when I’m listening to their songs. Not that they’re music has zero substance, plenty of it does, but because the songs are simple, relatable, and all around fun to belt out in the car or at a show. I love them because they make me want to sing and dance and just be silly. And mostly I love them because, well, I just do.

Remembering Sunday: All Time Low 2014

@christie_road91 instagram

So I went to the Blue Note on Sunday to see All Time Low. You know you went to a good show when your voice is shot and you still hurt a little two days later. Here’s what happened:

“Remember how the coffee made us shake on those long drives…”

The gas tank was full, the Teddy Grams were casually placed in the passenger seat, and a large bottle of water was kept right at my side in the cup holder. I was prepared. An hour and a half, that’s all the time it would take for me to reach my destination, The Blue Note in Columbia, Mo. An hour and a half isn’t much, but when you live in St. Louis the notion of driving that far for a concert seems ludicrous. But it was just a straight shot down I-70, well mostly, and I knew I could handle it just fine.

Driving through the Midwest in early April isn’t exactly a sight to see. With spring not in full swing and the land still brown and dead, the view from the windshield wasn’t exactly picturesque. Only an hour and half, though, and it would no longer matter. I had my specially picked CDs to keep me company as I trekked halfway across the state. The energetic and catchy sounds of So Wrong, It’s Right, Nothing Personal, and Don’t Panic rotated through my speakers keeping my spirits bright with anticipation.

An hour and a half and the sign finally read Columbia, Mo.

You learn a lot of things when you get lost in the-middle-of-nowhere-Missouri. One of those things is that Columbia, Mo. is a curious town. If you take a wrong turn and drive down the road one way, you feel like you never really left that barren land from the highway. It seems like you never left middle-of-nowhere-Missouri even though you’re supposed to be somewhere near the state’s largest university. But when you turn the other direction you quickly find yourself surrounded by student housing and a miniature downtown.

Somewhere in the midst of this miniature downtown is a small club that wears its age, but wears it well. As my vehicle approached, the blue letters on the venue read “The Blue Note” and my bones relaxed as I realized I had made it.

“I’m so sick of watching all the minutes pass as I go nowhere…”

After parking I roamed the streets a bit looking for a place to eat. If this had been a casual visit to Columbia I may have stopped to take in my surrounding, but with a growing line outside the venue, finding food couldn’t be a lovely walk around downtown, it had to be a mission. Jimmy John’s. After passing several pricy looking local bistros I gleefully found a Jimmy John’s.

Taking my sandwich-type treasure with me I found a place in the back of an already impressive line.

I was going to tweet this picture from line, but I forgot to attach it to the tweet :

An hour and a half had now suddenly turned into four hours. Four hours of waiting in a greasy ally along the venue. Although, time to kill means time to mingle with some unlikely like-minded peers. One look at the line and it was clear that All Time Low appeals to mostly those with two X chromosomes. They also seem to appeal to those under the age of 20. Many young faces filled the line and words of first concerts and all time favorite bands filled many conversations. It was an ally of concert junkies in the making with a few pros sprinkled here and there. I felt a little out place and maybe even a little out of touch, but getting to speak with those younger than me and remembering where I was at their age was equally nostalgic and inspiring.

Four hours and the guards called for tickets.

“I’m a walking travesty, but I’m smiling at everything…”

A half an hour. Battle plans are made by hoards of fans. Linked arms as a sign of their plotting and scheming. “If you’ve never been to the front, then you’re not trying hard enough” some say. Everyone wants the same thing: a night to remember, one for their personal history books.

After a half an hour, 7 p.m., a band called Handguns took the stage. Before the show the band joked around with us outside and shot Airsoft guns at each other. The band seamlessly took that same fun and energy and brought it to the stage. Their set was aggressive and energetic and the crowd didn’t seem to mind and willingly participated in any and all of the band’s requests. For up-and-comers in the scene the band showcased a lot of potential and left the audience beaming and more pumped than before.

Handguns on @christie_road91 instagram

The crowd was saturated with wild eyes spoke words of excitement. “I’m so excited for Man Overboard, you don’t even understand” uttered fans. Nearly an hour and a half into the evening and Man Overboard placed themselves on the stage in front of a backdrop displaying an image of their recent album cover with their name in white and a tie-dye image of a heart and two guns below it. The band’s set was filled with songs that were playfully whiny with a hint of angst. The crowd danced with added enthusiasm and more voices echoed each lyric. By the end the crowd was roaring, but they still had plenty to give.

Man Overboard on @christie_road91 instagram

After a long, ongoing game of sardines, all of the standing and sweating and waiting became worth it. The lights went down, music came through the speakers, a roar grew from the audience as the members of All Time Low; Alex Gaskarth, Jack Barakat, Rian Dawson and Zack Merrick; made their way to the stage. The band burst into “Do You Want Me (Dead)?” to an eager crowd that packed in even tighter than before and began to shout along. All Time Low kept the energy going with the tracks off their latest album Don’t Panic “So Long Soldier” and “The Irony of Choking on a Lifesaver.” The crowd didn’t hold back for a moment, thrashing and pushing and jumping and singing, soaking in every single moment.

All Time Low gave the audience their unwavering energy blasting through anthem after anthem playing popular songs and fan favorites alike. The played a healthy dose of classic All Time Low numbers even pulling out a show rarity “Vegas” off the bands first full length, So Wrong, It’s Right. The crowd burst with excitement as the verse began, “Tonight we lie awake. Remember how the coffee made us shake on those long drives, for one more long night…”

All Time Low 4/6/14. Photo by Annette Schaefer.

Eventually things took a softer turn as the acoustic guitar came out. Gaskarth stood alone on the stage with only the guitar. Phones and cameras were pulled out and waved in the air. Once Gaskarth began to strike the chords on the guitar it was clear that he was playing the start of “Remembering Sunday” saying “I want to test the singers here tonight.” The song began with a chorus of voices from the crowd to back it up, “He woke up from dreaming and put on his shoes. Started making his way past two in the morning, he hasn’t been sober for days…” Shortly after the sweet rendition ended Gaskarth went into the second acoustic number, Nothing Personal’s “Therapy.” Arms swayed as hundreds of voices floated to the ceiling, “Therapy, you were never a friend to me, and you can take back your misery…”

With the lingering sweetness of the softer songs still fresh in the air, the show picked back up where it left off with “Damned If I Do Ya (Damned If I Don’t)” and “Somewhere in Neverland.” After the tracks ended the band made jokes about Barakat’s shirt with the face of Carlton from “Fresh Prince of Bel Air” which incited a “Carlton Dance Off.” Members of the audience were asked on stage wearing terrified and shocked looks on their faces. A boy and a girl showed off their skills, with the girl winning the title. She was asked to stay on stage to sing “Time Bomb” with the band. Another member of the audience was brought up to sing the song: a boy named Joe. Joe happily made his way to the stage proudly rocking a pair of “Little Mermaid” leggings. Joe put on a show singing and dancing with all the members of the band. Even All Time Low couldn’t help but look amused.

The show was winding down. The end was near and everyone could feel it, but there was still an encore to look forward to. The crowd chanted for the band’s return. Some shouting “All Time Low!” and some shouting “One more song!”. The band returned shortly and played through “The Reckless and the Brave”, tour namesake “A Love Like War”, and the band’s first single “Dear Maria, Count Me In.” The voices of the crowd were louder than ever as the final song was played, “there’s a story at the bottom of this bottle and I’m the pen…” And then it was over. The band thanked their fans that couldn’t stop cheering until they were gone and there was no reason to cheer any longer.

All Time Low 4/6/14. Photo by Annette Schaefer.

“Dreams only last for the night…”

The interstate whizzed beneath my tires. Don’t Panic burst through my speakers. I left Columbia, The Blue Note and All Time Low in my rearview mirror. My body hurt and my eye lids were a bit heavy, but I was awake. The show was over but my memory of it would be forever. I laughed, I danced, I sang my heart out and I may have injured myself a bit, but it was all worth it even if it was just for one night. Even as I could see St. Charles in the distance, my mind was still back an hour and a half away in Columbia in front of that stage, and I didn’t mind it in the slightest.

 

***If you enjoyed reading this blog, let me know in the comments below! You should also subscribe via RSS or whatever so you can keep checking back for more reviews like this! Did you go to the show too or see All Time Low in a different city? I’d love to hear about it, so tell me about it in the comments or on my Tumblr page. You can also follow me on Twitter to see more fan girl moments from me!