LIVE REVIEW + PHOTOS: Sleigh Bells, Atomic Life, Sophie Hunter in Boston, MA (06.06.25)
On Friday, the dynamic noise-pop duo Sleigh Bells returned to New England to play the sold-out Paradise Rock Club in Boston, celebrating the release of their sixth studio album, Becky Bunky Birthday Boy. Sleigh Bells were joined by Long Island-based supergroup Atomic Life and alt-pop rapper Sophie Hunter, all contributing to a vibrant night of music.
The duo of vocalist Alexis Kraus and guitarist/producer Derek Miller, along with live touring members keyboardist Kate Steinberg and drummer Chris Hornbrook, created an unstoppable force on stage. Sleigh Bells’ live performances have always been a high-energy experience, with Miller’s hardcore-influenced guitar riffs paired perfectly with Kraus’ angelic yet commanding vocals. Their preference for smaller venues allows Kraus to shine with her captivating presence and endearingly soft-spoken charisma. Throughout the set, she eagerly climbed over stage barricades to connect with fans, all while maintaining flawless vocal delivery.
Derek Miller, in his own reserved style, provided a perfect counterbalance to Kraus’ exuberance. He mainly focused on his guitar, occasionally stepping in to request minor adjustments, and pleasantly surprised everyone with an impromptu riff of “I Got Sunshine” when introduced by Kraus. Their sibling-like chemistry is undeniable, complementing each other’s contrasting stage personas beautifully.
The setlist was a journey through most of their catalog, heavily featuring tracks from Treats, which recently celebrated its fifteenth anniversary. They kicked off with “Badly,” showcasing so much energy that Kraus even unveiled a new dance move in real time. The crowd loved the intermingling of classic hits and fresh material, with the infectious vibe continuing as they performed songs from Texis and their latest album. During “Bunky Pop,” Kraus shared a heartfelt moment, reflecting on the recent loss of her dog, Riz. She revealed how she cherishes the loving messages from her vet, unable to part with them just yet. This sincerity only made the electricity of the set more pronounced, culminating in a triumphant finale with their iconic track, “Rill Rill.”
The encore brought even more excitement, featuring “Pulse Drops Quiet” from the new album and the exhilarating “Crown on the Ground.” Kraus radiated energy as she waved goodbye to fans, offering a heartfelt connection as the night drew to a close. When they finished, she and Miller graciously engaged with as many fans as possible, shaking hands and sharing high-fives, leaving everyone buzzing with joy.
The sincerity and infectious energy of Sleigh Bells’ live performance leave an indelible mark on their audience. While they have the star power to fill larger venues, as seen with their impressive turnout during the 2024 Cool World performance, their commitment to intimate settings speaks volumes. It reflects their genuine passion for music and their fans, bringing an unparalleled experience that truly resonates. What they do is not only exceptional—it’s a heartfelt celebration of community and sound.
Photos – Sleigh Bells, Atomic Life, Sophie Hunter at Paradise Rock Club in Boston, MA on June 6th:
