By now, Red Rocks’ reputation precedes it: a stunning amphitheater carved between two massive sandstone outcrops with legendary acoustics. Experiencing a show at the iconic venue feels fundamentally different from any other in major music markets—so much so that even seasoned ravers find it almost surreal.
I’m convinced that my first Red Rocks show would’ve been special no matter who was performing, but I was especially thrilled it came via one of bass music’s most “out of this world” acts: ATLiens.
Gabriel Bandril
Raucous supporting sets from OG Nixin b2b Benda, HOL! and more set the tone, each delivering a progressively more intense mix of dubstep, riddim and experimental bass with escalating production that mirrored the sun’s descent behind the rocks. ATLiens, donning their ominous chrome masks and glowing red eyes, emerged by nightfall to the sound of a dystopian emergency broadcast, warning attendees they were “now preparing to leave the world behind.”
From there, the duo unleashed a bass-fueled barrage that was equal parts disorienting and electrifying. Enthralling sci-fi visuals filled the LED screen, enhanced by lasers, strobe bursts, columns of fire and crackling sparks, all transforming the venue into an intergalactic spectacle. Brief rain showers only heightened the magic.
Trey Karson
ATLiens made sure to play out IDs and selections from their bass music contemporaries, ensuring a set full of surprises and genre variation, from trap and riddim to midtempo bass. They dropped fan-favorites like “Shelter,” “Finding Silence” and their blistering official remix of Creed’s “One Last Breath.” They also sprinkled in flips of crowd-pleasers like Ray Volpe’s “Song Request” and Waka Flocka Flame’s “No Hands” along with originals from Jessica Audiffred, Samplifire, Space Laces, Subtronics and REZZ.
Equally impressive was what they didn’t do: say a word. ATLiens are among the rare few performers who let their music and visuals speak entirely for themselves. They arrive, wreak absolute havoc, and vanish. No banter, no branding fluff—just pure, unadulterated energy.
Trey Karson
Roaming around the amphitheater during the show revealed another truth: there’s no bad seat at Red Rocks. Up front, the production is entirely engrossing. Further back, the elevated view reveals sweeping vistas of Colorado, including the Denver skyline glowing in the distance. Generous spacing between attendees made dancing easy and comfortable—something increasingly rare at big-name venues.
I can’t imagine a better introduction to Red Rocks than witnessing ATLiens tear through its sacred stage. If you’re bass music fan looking for a venue that blends otherworldly production with geological majesty, this is it. Should you ever get the chance to see a headliner of their caliber at such a legendary site, don’t hesitate.
Trey Karson
Follow ATLiens:
Instagram: instagram.com/atliensofficialX: x.com/atliensofficialTikTok: tiktok.com/@atliensofficialFacebook: facebook.com/atliensofficialSpotify: spoti.fi/3MM6nEj
