AJR Burn the House Down at Ruoff Music Center [Show Review]

As part of their whimsical 14-stop “Somewhere in the Sky” tour, AJR brought their eccentric flair and electrifying spectacle to Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville, Indiana, last Thursday. I still remember being instantly hooked by their breakout single “I’m Ready.” It was pure aural confetti. Nearly a decade later, they reappeared in my life just in time for their first arena tour in 2024. AJR doesn’t just perform—they deliver a full-blown, Broadway-meets-pop fever dream.

AJR is an indie-pop trio made up of brothers Adam, Jack, and Ryan Met. They began in New York City in 2005, busking in parks and performing covers to fund their gear. Originally called “Adam, Jack & Ryan,” the group eventually shortened their name and recorded over 100 songs in their Chelsea apartment. Their breakout single “I’m Ready” in 2012 caught the attention of Sia’s team, leading to the creation of their own label, AJR Productions. This DIY spirit carried through early EPs like 6foot1, Infinity, and their 2015 debut album, Living Room.

Since then, AJR has released five studio albums, including Neotheater, OK Orchestra, and The Maybe Man. Their hit “Sober Up” topped Billboard’s Alternative chart, while OK Orchestra delivered their first Hot 100 top-ten hit, “Bang!” along with fan favourites like “Weak” and “Burn the House Down.” Known for their genre-blending sound and theatrical flair, the band coined the term “spokestep” to describe their chopped-up, beat-driven vocal style.

AJR’s setlist was a perfect mix of emotion and energy. Tender moments like “The Good Part” and “Turning Out Pt. ii” brought heartfelt stillness, while anthems like “Burn the House Down,” “Weak,” and “Way Less Sad” had the crowd on their feet. Classics like “I’m Ready” drew massive sing-alongs, and new tracks from The Maybe Man, including “Yes I’m a Mess” and “Inertia,” were met with full-throttle excitement. (Side note: hearing “Sober Up” live with your partner? Absolutely magical.)

This performance wasn’t just a concert—it was a multimedia experience. With stunning visuals, choreographed lighting, and bursts of comedy, every moment felt crafted for maximum impact. Jack and Ryan Met kept the audience engaged with playful banter, behind-the-scenes stories, and a hilarious bit involving an embarrassing photo of Ryan found under a fan’s seat. Later, they brought the show even closer, performing “World’s Smallest Violin” from the crowd.

Though Adam Met was absent, taking time to focus on climate advocacy and his inclusion on the “TIME100 Climate List,” Jack and Ryan carried the show with ease, letting the music speak for itself.

The “Somewhere in the Sky” tour is a must-see. With a setlist full of fan favourites and fresh tracks, all set in the magic of summer amphitheatres, it’s a night to remember. And with more tour dates on the horizon, there’s still time to catch the experience live.

AJR’s momentum continues with the upcoming release of their EP, What No One’s Thinking, on August 29th. Its lead single, “Betty,” dives into the emotional struggle of loving deeply while fearing commitment, setting the stage for what promises to be another powerful project. Mark your calendars, this next chapter of AJR is not to be missed.