October 17th wasn’t just the peak of the Fall Full Hunter’s Moon, the Reverb Lounge would also be set ablaze with an electric synergy when isitjosh, lghtbrngr, and Fontenelle took the stage. The intimate venue, known for its acoustics and ambiance, was the perfect setting for a night that promised an eclectic mix of genres and energies.
Omaha’s instrumental trio, Fontenelle, opened the show. The Reverb Lounge was packed with a crowd that vibed along with the band’s chill sound. During their final song, isitjosh joined them for a vocal performance. The raw honesty in the delivery of their music left an indelible mark on the audience, setting a high bar for the rest of the night.
Following this captivating opener was LGHTBRNGR, whose name and presence brought a transformative energy to the stage. While the band may be new, its members have been part of the Omaha music scene for the past decade, performing in various other bands. Tonight, during a full Hunter’s Moon, they would be their live debut.
The band has described their style as melding and pushing the boundaries of several genres and styles, which is evident in the release of their first single, “A Little Too Late” and its follow up “Feel Better.”
LGHTBRNGR’s performance was an auditory spectacle. Opening with the explosive 80’s punk/J-Pop styles of “Feel Better” their use of synth, heavy basslines, and an array bombastic beats created an almost otherworldly experience. The highlight of LGHTBRNGR’s set was undoubtedly “A Little Too Late,” a track that defies easy categorization with its blend of electronic, rock, and metalcore melodies. The crowd was not just listening; they were immersed in an experience that was much more than just an auditory journey. Drawing on their elder emo side, the band threw in a cover of Silverstein’s “My Heroine” for good messure. Their ability to connect with the audience, inviting them into this creative world, was truly a standout moment of the night. Musical history was definitely made tonight in Omaha.
Closing out the night was another elder emo and self-proclaimed outfit repeater Josh McManus, AKA isitjosh. Josh is no stranger to the Omaha music scene, and has been performing since he was 13. He’s had a series of ups and downs over the past 20 years but he’s never given up on his dreams.
His stage name might be misleadingly casual, but his performance was anything but. Bursting onto the stage with an infectious enthusiasm, isitjosh’s set was a rollercoaster of emotions. He opened with “Just Tell Me,” a track that immediately showcased his knack for blending heartfelt lyrics with a driving rhythm. His voice, a unique mix of vulnerability and power, filled the room as he transitioned seamlessly between up-tempo rock numbers and emo punk. Josh’s ability to control the room was evident in his interactions with the audience, making everyone feel like they were part of an intimate gathering rather than a concert.
The friendship between these three acts made for an unforgettable evening. Each artist brought their unique style and energy, yet there was a cohesion to the night that spoke to the careful curation of the lineup. The Reverb Lounge, with its cozy yet vibrant atmosphere, was the perfect backdrop for a night that felt both monumental and like a reunion of friends we haven’t seen for years. For those in attendance, October 17th, 2024, will be remembered not just as a night of great music, but as a shared experience of connection and artistic expression.
