On a steamy Thursday afternoon in Richmond, music lovers poured into Brown’s Island for part of Live Loud Music, a summer concert series taking place on the island this year. There was a beautiful stage set up by the river, green lawns, sunny skies, and food tents, all looking perfect for the show. Not long after doors opened, a rainy downpour showered cold water all over the crowd, cooling off the day. Even with the rain, smiles persevered. After clearing the area for a short period, fans lined up again, more stoked than ever to hear their favorite band perform.
Bright Eyes, an indie rock band from Omaha, Nebraska, brought energy, summer spirit, and sparks to the stage. Opening with “Dance and Sing,” from their 2020 release, Down In The Weeds Where The World Once Was, Richmond was booming with an upbeat mood. Leader Conor Oberst and his full, incredible band played a rocking performance, making the rain all worth it.
Their set included new versions of songs from their first album, as recreated for their recent EP, A Collection Of Songs Written and Recorded 1995-1997: A Companion, as well as newer songs like “Mariana Trench” and “Shell Games.” Conor danced around on the wet stage as the sun was setting and the city lights came on. His beautiful orchestra and band around him played an array of delightful music.
Even though their set was cut short because of the rain, the afterparty continued inside at Richmond Music Hall at Capital Ale House, where opener Alex G put on a stunning show. Fans lined up around the block waiting to get into the city’s highly cherished downtown venue. By the time Alex G hit the stage, Richmond Music Hall was packed tight, and seeing the excited faces of those from the front row all the way to the back of the house singing along with their favorite songs was such a joy.
As you can see in the photos, couples were having sweet moments; people were twirling and dancing. Seeing people enjoy live music again is so magical.
Alex G, aka (Sandy) Alex G, is an indie rock artist from Pennsylvania. His timeless aesthetic and energy has hits like 2011’s “Treehouse” remaining fan favorites over ten years later. His set included a range of gorgeous sounds, from chill and mellow beats to cinematic masterpieces. The audience was so sweet, sweaty and wet from the rain, so late at night, and still there to support Alex, his band, and their music. If you missed the show, be sure to listen to his latest album, We’re All Going to the World’s Fair (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack).
More photos (from both venues) below.
Bright Eyes:
Alex G:
All Photos by Lucienne Nghiem
