Sleeping With Sirens SOLD OUT Night in Chicago for their An Ending In Itself Tour

Photojournalist: Carrie Bergan

Sleeping With Sirens is currently on the road in support of their most recent album, An Ending In Itself, their eighth release since 2010. It’s no secret that this band is well-loved, as the show sold out ahead of time. Rain City Drive and Shyeye were on the tour as direct support. When I arrived at The Salt Shed around 5 p.m., an hour before doors, there was already a line down the whole block of eager fans anxiously waiting to get inside and get as close to the barricade as possible. The ages ranged from young fans to older folks. The band has been around for about sixteen years now, so it was no surprise that they’ve connected with fans of all ages.

Shyeye was the first band to take the stage, and even though I knew little about them, I left wanting to listen to them more. They were a very fitting group to kick off the night, as their lead vocalist spun around the stage, screaming into the microphone. Rain City Drive took the stage next, and they continued to bring the energy as I watched some of the audience singing back to them.

After the two openers and a set change, it was time for Sleeping With Sirens to blast our ears. One by one, the band members took the stage, letting frontman Kellin Quinn walk out last as the room erupted in screams and cheers. The music kicked in right away, and no one wasted a breath singing back the words to “Kick Me.” After that, they played another favorite, “Leave It All Behind,” and the voices in the room only grew louder with every word. Before launching into their third song, Quinn took a moment to address the crowd and the tour, thanking everyone for always showing up for them. He then said they were going to play the titular track of the new album, “An Ending In Itself.”

After leaving the photo pit, I watched the rest from the back in awe of how full the room was. Unfortunately, I got a little overexcited looking at the previous night’s setlist and found out that, for the two acoustic songs, they were playing a different one every night, much to my dismay. Michigan was blessed with hearing “Free Now,” a song very near to my heart that I’ve never gotten to hear live. I hope one day I’m blessed with a performance, but for now, I sang along to “Roger Rabbit.” I do love “Roger Rabbit,” but to be honest, I think that’s the only acoustic song I’ve gotten to hear at shows, besides their cover of “Iris” by the Goo Goo Dolls. I need more deep cuts, Kellin. I'm begging you to play “Free Now” for me. Thanks.

Anyways, the crowd was a little more tame than I’m used to. I didn’t see any crowd surfers go up until “Do It Now, Remember It Later.” The mosh pit was contained, but the energy in the room and the singing along were undeniable. Everyone in the room knew the words.

Sleeping With Sirens is still on tour, so don’t miss out on tickets. You can find all tour dates and ticket information here.