Omaha’s last resort?
Chi health center, Omaha, NE, USA
We'd like to extend a warm welcome to Ben Glanzer, one of our newest Entertainment observers, who played a key role in covering this electrifying show! Ben joined us for an unforgettable night of rock music in Omaha, where the Chi Health Center—with its impressive capacity of 17,560—set the stage for an incredible lineup.
As the day unfolded, the weather was perfectly breezy for a drive to Omaha, enhancing the excitement for the concert ahead. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the typical merch offerings—lots of black apparel allowing fans to display their devotion in style. A standout was the vinyl selection, which included a nostalgic gem from Rise Against's 2008 album, reminding us of the band's rich history alongside their latest hits. Special thanks to Live Nation for securing a nice comp spot for us—always appreciated!
As the concert kicked off, I couldn’t help but notice how crucial a pair of Eargasm earplugs had become; as we grow older, protecting our hearing while still enjoying the music is essential. And let’s not forget, all the bands on stage had over 20 years of rock experience behind them, proving that the spirit of rock 'n' roll is alive and well.
### Underoath
The night began with Underoath, who delivered a high-energy performance filled with phenomenal vocals. Their unique drummer-vocalist dynamic kept the crowd engaged, but honestly, I found myself wanting more from their set. The band certainly set the mood for the incredible night that lay ahead.
### Rise Against
Next up was Rise Against, who kicked off their set with a captivating pyro display, instantly igniting anticipation among the audience. Their setlist was a beautiful throwback to our college days, and I was pleasantly surprised at how many songs I remembered. By this point, the venue seemed close to full, creating an electric atmosphere. When they performed "Swing Life Away" acoustically, I was left with goosebumps—a major highlight of the night—marvelously complemented by a stunning light show.
### Papa Roach
The moment we had all been waiting for finally arrived as Papa Roach took the stage. The iconic Jacoby Shaddix opened the show in his OG style, and immediately, the crowd was engulfed in a spectacular display of pyro. The energy was infectious, especially with video screens displaying lyrics, encouraging everyone to sing along. In a memorable moment, Jacoby ventured into the seats, running out into the circle pit, and his stage presence was unparalleled. He even brought his son out to shoot a t-shirt cannon, showing how much fun and connection he brings to the performance.