Bayside, I Am the Avalanche, and Koyo Rock The Bourbon Theatre in Lincoln, NE: A Memorable Punk Rock Concert Experience
On February 25, 2023, The Bourbon Theatre in Lincoln, Nebraska, hosted an electrifying punk rock concert featuring Bayside, I Am the Avalanche, and Koyo. The intimate venue provided a close and personal connection with the bands, making it a standout experience for fans of Midwest punk rock music. This review covers the energetic performances, heartfelt fan interactions, and the nostalgic alternative rock vibes that defined the night.
A Welcoming Atmosphere at The Bourbon Theatre
The Bourbon Theatre, known for its cozy ambiance, fostered a unique connection between fans and performers. Before the show, I connected with Trevor (@trapdaddy_trev), a fellow photographer whose enthusiasm enhanced the experience. I also met Derek and his nine-year-old daughter, Penny, who had traveled from Kansas City to see Bayside. Penny, already a veteran of over 20 concerts, shared her excitement for Bayside’s song “Prayers.” Their dedication highlighted the passionate fanbase drawn to this punk rock concert in Lincoln, NE.
Koyo Delivers a Nostalgic Hardcore Punk Performance
Koyo, a Long Island hardcore punk band, kicked off the night with a high-energy set. Formed in 2016 by vocalist/guitarist Eric Haines, bassist/vocalist Tyler Rinaldi, and drummer/vocalist Nick DiGiovanni, Koyo has released two EPs, Diamond One and Call It Off, and is working on their debut album. Their melodic guitar riffs and driving drums evoked nostalgia, reminiscent of early 2000s alternative rock bands like Avril Lavigne with a raw, emo-punk edge. The shirtless lead singer commanded the stage, engaging the crowd with phone lights and energetic jumps. Koyo’s blend of heavy and melodic sounds made their performance a highlight of the evening.
I Am the Avalanche Brings Gritty Punk Rock Energy
Next up, I Am the Avalanche, a Brooklyn-based punk rock band formed in 2004 by vocalist Vinnie Caruana, took the stage. Known for albums like Through the Pain (2007), Worlds Apart (2009), Bury Me at Makeout Creek (2013), and Avalanche (2017), the band delivered a dynamic performance. Their sound, blending influences like The Maine and Linkin Park with soulful, gritty vocals, captivated the audience. A standout moment was their playful song about a mushroom-fueled adventure in Amsterdam, which drew laughs from the crowd. Caruana’s humorous remark about his beer bottle’s “blue mountains” sparked cheers, showcasing the band’s ability to connect through humor and raw energy.
Bayside Steals the Show with Emotional Punk Rock
Headliners Bayside, a punk rock band from Queens, New York, formed in 2000, closed the night with a powerful performance. Comprising lead vocalist Anthony Raneri, guitarist Jack O’Shea, bassist Nick Ghanbarian, and drummer Chris Guglielmo, Bayside has released eight albums, including Sirens and Condolences (2004), Bayside (2005), and Interrobang (2019). Their melodic punk sound, often compared to Taking Back Sunday and The Used, resonated deeply with fans. An emotional intro featuring fan testimonials, culminating in the phrase “Bayside is family,” set the tone for their set. Their music, blending All Time Low’s vocals with Set It Off’s instrumentals, flooded the venue with nostalgia, transporting fans back to the early 2000s alternative punk rock scene. The crowd surged forward, swaying to the gritty, raw energy of Bayside’s performance.
Memorable Fan Interactions and Venue Charm
Between sets, Penny shared that her mother owns The Parlor, a boutique in Liberty, Missouri, named for its history as a former funeral parlor—a detail that added a “metal” vibe to the night. These interactions underscored the sense of community at The Bourbon Theatre, where fans of all ages united over their love for punk rock music.
Why This Concert Stood Out
The “Just Like Home” tour, running through mid-March 2023 and ending in Jersey City, New Jersey, showcased the enduring appeal of punk rock concerts in Lincoln, NE. Bayside’s upcoming Blue EP, set for digital release on March 17, 2023, and vinyl release on April 21, 2023, via Hopeless Records, added anticipation for fans. The concert’s blend of nostalgic alternative rock, heartfelt lyrics, and raw energy left a lasting impression, with Koyo, I Am the Avalanche, and Bayside earning spots on my playlist.
For those seeking an unforgettable Midwest punk rock concert experience, The Bourbon Theatre delivered. Tickets for the tour are available here, and fans can pre-order the Blue EP here. This night was a testament to the power of live music to connect and inspire.
