Review and photos by Delaney Hawley
On February 26, 2024, Waterparks launched their latest headlining tour, Sneaking Out Of Heaven at Seattle's Showbox SoDo. Lead singer Awsten Knight emphasized his desire for each tour to be unique, promising a fresh experience for fans.
Poptropicaslutz wowed the crowd with an energetic and upbeat set as they started off the night. This was the largest crowd they had played to before, but they didn’t let that intimidate them. They even got everyone singing along to their cover of “Pursuit of Happiness” by Kid Cudi.
Before Loveless took the stage, you could feel the crowd bursting with energy and excitement. Julian Comeau’s stage presence alone would make you assume the alternative rock duo had been around for many years. It seemed like second nature for them to connect with the audience. Comeau even jumped into the photo pit for part of the set to get closer to the fans.
Loveless surprised fans by playing a medley of some of the most popular songs, including “happier than ever” by Billie Eilish and “Running Up That Hill” by Kate Bush, known for their covers that blew up on TikTok. Loveless is more than capable of writing their own hits, including one of their newer releases, “I Hope I’m Not Sick," which showcases Comeau’s extraordinary singing abilities. Seattle was also the first place Loveless had ever played their newest single “Addicted," which was released in early February.
The room was alive with anticipation, eagerly awaiting Waterparks' performance. Known for their dynamic stage presence and catchy tunes, Waterparks didn't disappoint. The audience's enthusiasm was palpable, especially during the anthem "You’d Be Paranoid Too (If Everyone Was Out to Get You)" from their acclaimed Greatest Hits album. Crowd surfing ensued shortly after the concert began and continued throughout the night, adding to the electrifying atmosphere.
One of my personal favorite moments of the night was Waterparks’ cover of “Why Can’t I” by Liz Phair. It was an unexpected surprise, but it was executed very well. There’s nothing quite like the nostalgia that music can evoke. The band's decision to display clips of iconic rom-com moments from the 90s-2000s on the screens behind them transported me right back to my childhood.
For this tour, Knight wanted to change it up and give fans a new experience. He learned to play the piano and moved to the B Stage at the back of the room, surprising fans who were unaware he’d join them there. He performed several songs, including “Snow Globe” from their Greatest Hits album. It was the first time he played piano for an audience, but you’d never guess it.
Waterparks truly poured their hearts into the performance, delivering an eclectic mix of their discography with a distinct twist on each track. The fervor remained palpable even after a three-song encore, as fans departed yearning for more and anticipating their next live show.
Waterparks
Loveless
Poptropicaslutz
