Armor For Sleep, Boys Night Out & Hellogoodbye – The Wellmont Theater – Montclair, NJ – 4/5/2025
Review & Photos by Lori Schneider (IG: @LoriSchneiderPhotography)
Armor For Sleep
Armor For Sleep brought their 20th anniversary tour “What To Do When You Are Dead” to the Wellmont Theater in Montclair, NJ on April 5, 2025. Joined by special guests Boys Night Out and Hellogoodbye, the tour successfully rekindled the spirit of mid-2000s emo and post-hardcore music. Montclair was the second to last stop on the 25-city tour which concluded in Albany, NY.
Armor for Sleep is an American rock band from Teaneck, New Jersey, known for their blend of emo, post-hardcore, alternative rock, and dream pop. The band was formed in 2001 by lead vocalist and guitarist Ben Jorgensen. In 2003, Armor for Sleep released their debut album, Dream to Make Believe, followed by their 2005 concept album, What to Do When You Are Dead, which received critical acclaim and expanded their fanbase. The album’s narrative explores themes of life and the afterlife, solidifying the band’s reputation for introspective and thematic songwriting.
As of 2024, the band’s lineup includes Ben Jorgensen (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Nash Breen (drums), Chad Sabo (bass, backing vocals), and Erik Rudic (lead guitar). The setlist featured the complete What to Do When You Are Dead album, much to the delight of longtime fans.
Boys Night Out
Boys Night Out is a Canadian emo and post-hardcore band originating from Burlington, Ontario, formed in 2001. After extensive touring, the band went on hiatus in 2007. In 2024, Boys Night Out reformed with a new lineup.
Boys Night Out’s musical journey reflects their adaptability and dedication to their music, maintaining a lasting connection with their audience through various phases of their career. Initial releases showcased a blend of pop-punk energy with post-hardcore elements.
Later releases marked a shift towards a more subdued and experimental sound. Their self-titled third album, Boys Night Out, arrived in 2007, continuing their evolution in musical style.
Hellogoodbye
Hellogoodbye is an American pop rock band formed in 2001 in Huntington Beach, California. The band was founded by lead vocalist and guitarist Forrest Kline, who has remained the consistent member throughout its evolution. Over the years, Hellogoodbye has seen various lineup changes.
Hellogoodbye started out as quirky synth-pop goofballs, grew into thoughtful indie pop craftsmen, and now balance both worlds — fun and emotional, retro and fresh. Think of them as the lovable, stylish weirdos at a party who surprise you with depth when you start talking. Hellogoodbye has toured extensively, sharing stages with bands like Hanson, New Found Glory, and Paramore. Their energetic live performances have contributed to a dedicated fanbase.
Overall, the tour has been a celebration of Armor For Sleep’s legacy, effectively bridging the gap between past and present for fans old and new. The collaboration with Boys Night Out and Hellogoodbye has enriched the concert series, making it a memorable experience that honors the roots and evolution of the genre. The inclusion of Boys Night Out and Hellogoodbye added depth to the lineup, each bringing their unique styles to the stage and enhancing the overall concert experience.
