Concert Reviews

Blue October: We Didn’t Die Young Tour

November 1, 2025 – The Astro – La Vista, NE

The Astro in La Vista, Nebraska was the place to be on Saturday night, November 1, 2025, because Blue October rolled into town on their We Didn’t Die Young tour—and the night was nothing short of awesome.

The evening kicked off with James And The Cold Gun, a band I honestly wasn’t familiar with before this show, but it only took a few songs for me to become an instant fan. These guys came out swinging with raw energy and a gritty, modern rock sound that grabbed the whole crowd’s attention. The band—James Joseph (vocals, guitar), James Biss (lead guitar), Gaby Elise (bass), and Jack Wrench (drums)—has been earning a ton of buzz in the rock world lately. They’ve been praised by outlets like NME and Kerrang!, toured with bands like Therapy? and The Wildhearts, and have been recognized for their throwback-to-90s-rock sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Their self-titled debut album made waves for its in-your-face attitude and impressive songwriting. Truly the perfect way to open the show.

After a quick intermission, it was time for Blue October. This was my fourth time seeing them live, and honestly, I look forward to it every single time. They’re just one of those bands that never disappoints.

If you’re not familiar, Blue October has been a staple in alternative rock since the late 90s. They’ve racked up multiple Top 40 hits, including “Hate Me” and “Into the Ocean,” earned platinum and gold certifications, and have built one of the most loyal fanbases out there. The band—Justin Furstenfeld, Ryan Delahoussaye, Jeremy Furstenfeld, Matt Noveskey, and Steve Schiltz—continues to evolve musically while still delivering the emotional punch they’re known for.

The stage setup was drenched in moody blue, purple, red, and yellow hues that fit the tone of their catalog beautifully. Justin sounded incredible and took a moment to thank the Omaha crowd for always being so supportive, which the audience loved. Then they kicked off the set with “This Is What I Live For,” which just happens to be my favorite Blue October song, and I instantly knew the night was going to be something special.

With over 1.1 million monthly listeners on Spotify, Blue October continues to stay as relevant as ever. Their latest single, “Hot Stuff,” is ridiculously catchy, full of swagger, and absolutely deserves a spot on your rock playlist.

All around, it was a fantastic show—one of those nights where both bands crushed it, the crowd was electric, and you walked out feeling like rock music is alive and well.

Blue October Setlist:

  • This Is What I Live For
  • Coal Makes Diamonds
  • The Way I Used to Love You
  • Only Lost Is Found
  • Sway
  • Into the Ocean
  • Everything We Lost In The Fire
  • The Chills
  • Home
  • All That We Are
  • Hate Me
  • Bleed Out
  • Oh My My
  • Moving On (So Long)
  • Hot Stuff
  • Down Here Waiting
  • Debris
  • Encore:
  • The Feel Again (Stay)
  • Fear
  • I Hope You’re Happy

James And The Cold Gun

Blue October

joedesanti

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