A regular Thursday night, usually filled with studying and last minute homework assignments, was replaced with an array of phenomenal performances at the El Rey Theatre on Oct. 27.

We immediately stood in the general admission area trying to find a spot that was as close to the stage as possible. It was quite a surprise that the concert wasn’t filled with a lot of people considering how good the live performances were about to be; we only filled up about half of the available space.

The first opening act was a band called IRONTOM, made of lead singer Harry Hayes, guitarist Zach Irons, bass player Dane Sandborg, pianist Dan Saslow and drummer Dyl Williams. As Hayes sang the few songs they performed, including “Hookers” which was officially released the next day, he unleashed his dance moves that need to be seen in person to truly understand what words can’t describe. We were even lucky enough to be able to meet Hayes after his performance at the merch table by the entrance.

“I’ve never seen someone feel music like Harry Hayes does,” said Alex Hwang, a member of Run River North and Steve Aoki look-alike.

Run River North was the second opening act. They consist of six members: Hwang on vocals and acoustic guitar, Daniel Chae on guitar and violin, violinist Jennifer Rim, bassist Joseph Chun, drummer John Chong and Sally Kang on piano and vocals. Their set included crowd pleasers, such as “Pretender” and “Superstition.” Each song was played with great passion and energy that drew the crowd to become immersed in the music.

After the two amazing opening acts, it was time for the band everyone was waiting for: Finish Ticket. Lead singer Brendan Hoyes, bassist Michael Hoyes, guitarist lex Didonato, drummer Gabe Stein and pianist Nick Stein played some of their songs that were unquestionably going to pump up the crowd, including “Colors,” “Tranquilize” and “Wrong.”

Although the music was phenomenal, the best part had to have been once they were exiting off stage. Didonato had just finished an incredible solo on the guitar and decided to throw his guitar pick into the crowd. Immediately a group of girls began frantically searching for it, but Jessica just casually picked it up and we rushed out.

Concerts are always a good experience, but this one was truly remarkable. We’ll never forget the new music we were introduced to and the fun times that went along with it all.