Gallery: Aly & Aj's "Places to Run Tour" at Toad's Place

Live Nation Presents: Aly & Aj March 27th in New Haven, Connecticut

Words and Photos by: Amanda Chirsky | @blacklanternphotography

Bringing their “Places to Run” tour to Toad's Place on March 27th, Aly & AJ delivered a night that effortlessly bridged past and present, blending early 2000s nostalgia with a polished, mature sound. From a captivating last-minute opening set by rising artist Riley Cotton to a high-energy, emotionally charged headlining performance, the show felt both intimate and electric. More than just a concert, it became a shared experience—one that highlighted the duo’s artistic growth while celebrating the songs that first made fans fall in love with them.

To start off the night, Riley Cotton captivated the crowd with her melodic voice. The joy radiating from her and her guitarist filled the room, leaving the audience in awe. The West Hartford native joined the tour for a special performance at Toad’s Place in New Haven. Her set leaned into a stripped down, acoustic style, allowing her vocals to take center stage. With a soft yet powerful tone, she moved effortlessly between intimate verses and more emotionally charged moments.

Seeing Aly & AJ live on their Places to run tour was nothing short of surreal. It was a night that blended early 2000s nostalgia with a refreshed, mature sound that proves just how much they’ve evolved. From the moment they stepped foot on stage, the energy in the room shifted, and by the end of the night, the crowd was left genuinely speechless. They opened the show with selections from their newer material, immediately setting a tone that felt more introspective and musically layered than what many fans may have expected. Their recent songs showcased their growth not just as performers, but as storytellers, with richer vocals and a more refined indie pop sound. Still, there was an unspoken anticipation in the crowd. Everyone knew what was coming.

And then, they delivered.

As the opening notes of “Chemicals React" rang out, the venue erupted. What followed was a seamless transition into fan favorite hits like "Rush" and “Like Woah”, each one met with louder screams than the last. It was clear that these songs still hold a powerful place in fans’ hearts, and hearing them live created a shared sense of nostalgia that connected everyone in the room.

Aly, in particular, commanded the stage with undeniable rock star energy, constantly moving, engaging the audience, and bringing a dynamic presence that elevated the entire performance. AJ balanced that energy with strong, grounded vocals, creating a perfect harmony both musically and visually.

They closed the night with "Potential Breakup Song", and it was easily the most explosive moment of the show. The crowd sang every word at the top of their lungs, turning the final performance into a full on celebration. It wasn’t just a concert anymore. It felt like a collective memory being relived in real time.

Beyond the music, Aly & AJ also carry a deeper message. Following a frightening incident in April 2022, when their tour bus was caught in the crossfire of a mass shooting in Sacramento that tragically took six lives, the duo has become vocal advocates against gun violence. That experience adds a layer of sincerity and purpose to their performances, reminding fans that their artistry extends beyond the stage. Overall, Aly & AJ delivered a performance that was both nostalgic and refreshingly current, proving they are far more than just a throwback act.

Check out the full gallery of Aly & Aj below!