Hell’s Belles Halloween 2024 Show at King’s Hall in Everett
Halloween night was winding down. It was a cold, wet night, and most the trick-or-treaters were getting warm indoors. But my night was not done.
I ventured to APEX Art & Culture Center in Downtown Everett to witness a reunion of sorts.
World-famous, all-female AC/DC cover band, Hell’s Belles, was in town to play in King’s Hall on Halloween night.
Not only are the founders of the band local to Washington, but the Hell’s Belles show was the first music event to ever play at APEX.
Lots of costumes and decor to take in with the AC/DC cover songs.
My Everett News has interviewed the owner and covered plenty of events at APEX, but this was my first.
I was circling the block looking for parking and could hear the muffled sound of AC/DC music reverberating down Everett Avenue. I knew I was in the right place.
The 16Eleven Restaurant is downstairs
Upon entering, there were carpeted stairs heading up and down. I, of course, went the wrong way (down) and was greeted by a 16Eleven restaurant sign. Though tempting, I decided to save that experience for another day. I was here for some AC/DC music and costume viewing fun.
Being on the press list, my entry was quick and easy, but I suspect it was that way for most attendees.
The bar is conveniently located near the entrance.
I grabbed a drink upon entering King’s Hall, which had a bar conveniently located just one step from the entrance. It was loud, so pointing at the drink menu was the best form of communication.
The layout was a bit odd. The best way I can describe it is an “L” shape, with the stage at the top of the L, and the crowd formed down the length of the King’s Hall. A few small tables lined the edges, and larger tables occupied the bottom of the L. The standing general admission had the best show experience, but there’s nothing to stop the table dwellers from joining the crowd whenever they felt like it.
To the right of the L was another bar and a bit of ear relief, but it was far from silent and still loud enough to make talking difficult. This area was fairly empty and brightly lit, a stark contrast to the main area. There was also a balcony, which I didn’t sit down in, but from what I saw, it felt tucked away and disconnected from the crowd, becoming more of an observer from a distance-type experience.
Hell’s Belles lead guitarist, Adrian Conner
The music was fantastic. I was most impressed by the lead guitarist, Adrian Conner. With her flailing dreadlocks and one-handed guitar riffs, she brought the energy to the show and has been doing so for over two decades.
Lead singer, Lauren Piston, also comes from the Seattle-area, and has been the primary voice for the band for over a decade.
AC/DC’s Angus Young was quoted saying, “The best AC/DC band I’ve ever heard? There was an all-girl band in America, Hells Belles.”
Though it was very dark, I enjoyed seeing people in costume. Angel and Devil costumes were certainly the most popular. Despite 80% of the attendees in costume, the costumers played second fiddle to the music show.
In future Halloween events, I’d suggest making use of the empty part of the “L” to set up a photo booth to encourage and reward those in costume.
Overall, I enjoyed the band and the charm of the historical venue, and look forward to Everett hosting more events. I’ll leave you with a short video clip from the show:
November 3, 2024
Events in Everett, Downtown Everett