AJR, the indie-pop trio known for their catchy hooks and creative stagecraft, delivered a spectacular show at the CHI Health Center in Omaha that left fans buzzing. Over 2.5 hours, the group—composed of brothers Adam, Jack, and Ryan Met—performed an array of their biggest hits, thrilling the audience with a combination of music, visual effects, and interactive moments that made for an unforgettable experience.
AJR’s rise to fame is a story of perseverance and innovation. The Met brothers began their musical journey in their New York City living room, where they experimented with different sounds and genres. Their big break came with the release of “I’m Ready” in 2013, a self-produced single that sampled SpongeBob SquarePants and quickly went viral. The song’s success led to a record deal and paved the way for the band’s unique sound—a mix of pop, electronic, and baroque elements, all underpinned by deeply personal lyrics.
AJR’s subsequent albums, including The Click (2017) and Neotheater (2019), solidified their place in the music industry. The band is known for its DIY approach to music production, often crafting intricate beats and melodies in their home studio. Their lyrics often explore themes of adulthood, anxiety, and the struggle for authenticity in a digital world, resonating with a broad audience.
At the CHI Health Center, AJR showcased why they’ve become one of the most exciting live acts around. The concert was a visual feast, featuring stunning LED screens, intricate light shows, and even aerial stunts that added a thrilling dimension to the performance. These visual elements have become a staple of AJR’s shows, designed to immerse the audience in the music. The band’s ability to blend these visuals with their music, creating a multi-sensory experience, has been a hallmark of their tours and was on full display in Omaha.
The setlist covered all the fan favorites, from the anthemic “Burn the House Down” to the introspective “Sober Up.” Each song was accompanied by visuals that enhanced its emotional impact—whether it was a psychedelic display during “Bang!” or the heartfelt imagery that accompanied “Dear Winter.” The use of aerial stunts during certain songs added an element of surprise and excitement, keeping the audience engaged throughout the night.
AJR’s Omaha show was not just a concert but a full-blown interactive experience. The band is known for its playful rapport with fans, and this night was no exception. Several fans brought posters in hopes of catching the band’s attention, and some were lucky enough to be singled out. One fan’s poster featured a “wheel of mystery,” which the band enthusiastically incorporated into the show by inviting the fan on stage. The spin of the wheel led to a breath-holding contest between the fan and Jack Met, with the fan ultimately winning and taking home one of Jack’s signature hats.
Another fan was brought on stage as a doppelganger for Ryan Met, much to the delight of the crowd. These interactions created a sense of community and connection, reinforcing the idea that an AJR concert is as much about the fans as it is about the music.
AJR has carved out a unique space in the music world, blending catchy pop melodies with thoughtful lyrics and innovative stagecraft. Their DIY approach to music production and their ability to connect with fans on a personal level have set them apart from many of their contemporaries. The Omaha show was a testament to their growth as artists and performers, and it’s clear that AJR’s star will continue to rise.
Overall, AJR’s concert at the CHI Health Center was more than just a performance—it was a celebration of music, creativity, and the power of fan engagement. The Met brothers delivered a night full of surprises, proving once again why they are one of the most beloved acts in pop music today. Fans left the venue not only with memories of an incredible show but with the feeling that they had been part of something truly special.







All photos by Marisa Dawson






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