Student alternative and indie artists perform in LaHaye Event Space Feb. 5

Over 200 students packed the LaHaye Event Space to witness the first student concert of the semester. Three student bands: Rhineland, Oceanic and ANX treated those in attendance to a high-energy show that had fans cheering from beginning to end. 

Prior to the first performance, both Rhineland and Oceanic were brought out onto the stage for a quick introduction. Both bands were asked who their biggest musical influence was.

In what turned out to be a funny coincidence, both bands were inspired by similar artists including Coldplay, The 1975, John Mayer and others. After hearing Rhineland’s inspiration, Jacob Johnson, lead guitarist for Oceanic, could not help but crack a joke about the similarities.

“So basically, us and Rhineland are the same band,” Johnson said.

Kacey Huffty | Liberty Champion
FIRST — ANX, Oceanic and Rhineland kicks off semester’s concerts.

He was not wrong either. Both bands delivered performances with  similar music styles.

Oceanic is a smooth-sounding indie rock band that formed in the fall of 2016 in Lynchburg. Rhineland is an indie/alternative band that recently released its first single on Spotify “We Go Down.”

The closing band ANX did not disappoint the crowd either. Their electric sound had the crowd cheering and dancing. 

The fans were on their feet all night enjoying themselves and mingling with friends between sets. 

Oceanic lead singer Nate Wyatt assured the crowd that the upcoming set was just for them.

“All of these things that you are about to see and hear and experience have all been done specially for each one of you,” Wyatt said.

Prior to Oceanic’s set, as many musicians do, Wyatt made a plea to the crowd to get excited.

“You all know the one friend who is the loudest and most rowdy, and I’m talking to you specifically,” Wyatt said. “You all need to be the ones to get your friends to move because this is a concert where we all need to do our part.”

The already excited crowd responded enthusiastically as drummer Jon Hopkins set the first song into motion. Many of the fans were familiar with the music and were happy to participate and sing along.

This show was the first student activities concert featuring student artists this semester. 

Information about upcoming concerts can be found on the Student Activities website

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