Concert Recap: Dayglow
Words and Photos By Zuzu Khalil
Last Tuesday night, Dayglow brought their signature blend of vibrant indie-pop and infectious energy to the El Rey Theater in Albuquerque, leaving fans buzzing with the kind of joy that only live music can deliver. The historic venue, with its intimate atmosphere and vintage charm, provided the perfect backdrop for a night of singalongs, dancing, and unfiltered positivity.
From the moment Sloan Struble, the creative force behind Dayglow, stepped on stage, it was clear this wasn’t just a concert—it was a celebration. Bathed in vibrant, shifting hues of light, the band opened with the groovy "Junior Varsity," immediately setting the tone for an evening of carefree fun. Struble’s effortless charisma shone as he interacted with the crowd, cracking jokes and sharing anecdotes between songs, creating an almost familial connection with the audience.
Dayglow’s setlist was a perfect mix of fan favorites and tracks from their latest album, People in Motion. Songs like "Can I Call You Tonight?" and "Hot Rod" sent the crowd into a frenzy, with every lyric echoed back at full volume. Meanwhile, newer tracks such as "Then It All Goes Away" and "False Direction" showcased the band’s evolving sound—more polished but still irresistibly groovy. The live renditions brought an extra layer of energy, with the band injecting a jam-like spontaneity that had the audience on their toes.
Struble’s musicality was on full display, as he alternated between guitar, keys, and commanding the stage with his dynamic presence. The chemistry between the band members was palpable, and their joy was contagious. By the time they launched into their encore, closing with the euphoric "Run the World!!!," the entire venue felt like one big, collective celebration of life.
The El Rey Theater’s acoustics complemented the night perfectly, allowing every shimmering synth, funky bassline, and crisp drumbeat to shine. The intimate space fostered a sense of closeness, making even the furthest corners of the venue feel like part of the action.
As the house lights came up, fans lingered, reluctant to let the magic end. Dayglow’s performance wasn’t just a showcase of musical talent—it was a reminder of the pure joy that live music can bring. For those lucky enough to be at the El Rey Theater last Tuesday night, it was an unforgettable evening filled with radiant melodies and heartfelt connections.
If Dayglow’s tour is coming through your city, don’t miss the chance to experience this vibrant explosion of feel-good vibes. You’ll leave smiling, dancing, and humming their tunes for days to come.
