april 30, 2025 - seattle, washington

On April 30, Seattle’s WAMU Theater was transported into a realm of insane visuals and euphoric energy as Empire of the Sun brought their ASK THAT GOD tour to life. The Australian duo, known for their theatrical performances and genre-defying sound, delivered an intimate show that was a feast for the senses.

The South African brothers Roi Turbo opened the night with a stylish, synth-y set that got people moving early. They weren’t just there to hype up the crowd, they brought solid music and a vibe that matched the night perfectly. By the time the brothers wrapped up, you could feel the buzz of energy building throughout the crowd.

When the lights finally dropped, it felt like the entire room collectively held its breath. Fans holding one another's hands and shaking in anticipation. The stage lit up in waves of pulsing neon and strobe flashes, synced with massive digital screens displaying hypnotic visuals. Empire of the Sun took the stage amidst this cascade of light and sound, transforming the theater into a cosmic landscape. Frontman Luke Steele, adorned in his signature headdress, futuristic attire, platform boots, and that unmistakable presence, commanded the room without saying a word. From that point on, the venue felt like another dimension.

The setlist blended old favorites with newer tracks from the ASK THAT GOD era, featuring classics like “Walking on a Dream”, “We Are the People”, and “Alive”. They didn’t skimp on production, each song included choreographed dancers, elaborate costume changes, and visuals that ranged from celestial bodies to abstract art. The effect was a multisensory experience that fully captivated the audience, like a mashup of Blade Runner, space mythology, and an acid trip in the best way possible.

Throughout the performance, Steele frequently engaged with the crowd, at one point declaring, “We are like a family tonight.” That sentiment hit, the night was not just about performance, it was about connection. People were dancing like they meant it. Strangers were singing to each other. You could feel how much this music meant to people.

The atmosphere was electric, with every beat and lyric amplifying the sense of community. Empire of the Sun's performance at WAMU Theater was more than a concert, it was an immersive journey that blurred the lines between music, art, and theater. And in a city known for standing still at concerts, it was unforgettable to see a room that was alive.