Brotality's "It Feeds" Tour Ignites Lincoln's 1867 Bar with Thrash Metal Energy
By Jacqueline Radakovich
Photo Credit: @jrad.arts
LINCOLN, Neb. — Brotality unleashed their "It Feeds" Tour at 1867 Bar in Lincoln, Nebraska, on July 31, 2025, delivering a night of relentless thrash metal and electrifying headbanging. The upstate New York band, celebrating their new EP, "It Feeds," brought their high-octane performance to the Midwest, with stops planned in Arkansas, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and a finale in their home state. Local Lincoln metal acts Cyphen and Blindied opened the show, creating a cohesive bill that showcased the region's vibrant music scene.
Blindied Kicks Off the Night with Resilience
Ethan McCorkle Dieken, performing as Blindied, opened the evening with a solo acoustic set blending hard rock and Midwest emo influences. Despite a broken guitar string midway through, Dieken's passion shone, captivating the crowd. A member of Lincoln's metal band Orialus, Dieken is also organizing Fautumnall, an eco-conscious music festival set for Sept. 7, 2025, at Antelope Park. The event will feature live music, arts, crafts, vendors, and a recycling drive focused on disposable vapes and batteries. Attendees can earn raffle tickets for prizes by recycling vapes, promoting environmental sustainability. Learn more about Fautumnall at [event website or social media handle].
Cyphen Steals the Spotlight with High-Energy Performance
Cyphen, a Lincoln-based rock band formed in 2022, took the stage next, commanding attention with their dynamic presence. Comprising Cody Harlan (bass), Will Gades (guitar), Bryant Hunzeker (vocals), and Josiah Hastings (drums), Cyphen's chemistry and humor electrified the crowd. Hunzeker's powerful vocals paired seamlessly with Harlan and Gades' relentless headbanging and guitar shredding, while Hastings delivered an explosive drum performance. Despite minor sound issues, Cyphen's energy rivaled their previous shows alongside metal giants like Vended. Fans remarked, "How is this band not bigger?" With their debut album nearing release, Cyphen is poised for greater recognition. Catch them next at Maloney's in Council Bluffs, Iowa, on Aug. 10, 2025, or Duffy's Tavern in Lincoln on Aug. 20, 2025. Follow @cyphenofficial on Instagram or stream their music on Spotify.
Brotality Delivers a Thrash Metal Masterclass
Headliners Brotality, formed by brothers Bryce and Reece Maopolski alongside drummer John Harring, brought their Mastodon- and Megadeth-inspired sound to Lincoln. Bryce (guitar, vocals) dazzled with blistering riffs and solos, while Reece (bass, vocals) delivered guttural basslines and boundless energy. Harring's precise, thunderous drumming tied the performance together. The trio's synchronicity and relentless stage presence kept the crowd moving, with mosh pits erupting despite the intimate audience size. Bryce's unpredictable guitar work and stylish instruments, combined with Reece's commanding vocals and distorted bass, created a sonic assault. Both brothers traded screams and clean vocals, showcasing their versatility.
Bryant Hunzeker of Cyphen praised Brotality, saying, "They were phenomenal! They need to return to Lincoln and become 1867's house band." Beyond their music, Brotality advocates for mental health, partnering with an organization to provide free mental health support for fans and the metal community. With their tour ongoing, fans can check Brotality's remaining dates and stream "It Feeds" on all platforms. For more on their story, read our exclusive interview [link to interview].
A Night of Local and Touring Talent
The synergy between Blindied, Cyphen, and Brotality made for an unforgettable night at 1867 Bar. Each act brought unique energy, complementing the others while showcasing Lincoln's thriving metal scene. For fans of thrash metal concerts in Nebraska or those seeking local music events in Lincoln, this show set a high bar. Stay tuned for Cyphen's album release and Brotality's future tours, and don't miss Fautumnall for a blend of music and environmental impact.
