August Burns Red at The Astro in LaVista, Nebraska on May 3rd, 2026.
Photos and Review by The Pit Magazine Contributor, Bob DeHart Photography
August Burns Red delivered a crushingly energetic performance at The Astro in LaVista on May 3, 2026, proving once again why they remain one of metalcore’s most respected live acts. Sharing the bill with The Amity Affliction, Boundaries, and HEAVENSGATE as part of the Spring Horizons Tour, the night was packed with intensity from start to finish.
From the moment the lights dropped, the crowd erupted as August Burns Red launched into a high-energy opening that immediately had the crowd up and moving.. The sound quality at the Astro is amazing, every guitar riff, punishing breakdown, and thunderous drums felt like it was hitting right in the chest. The band sounded incredibly tight live, they were hitting on all cylinders throughout the set.
Frontman Jake Luhrs commanded the stage with nonstop movement and crowd interaction, frequently encouraging circle pits, crowd surfers, and singalongs. His connection with the audience helped create an atmosphere that was tough to beat. I challenge you to find a more intense singer. His intensity is a driving force behind the bands stage presence. Guitarists JB Brubaker and Brent Rambler were flawless throughout the set, balancing melodic leads with crushing heaviness, while drummer Matt Greiner didn’t miss a beat, literally.
The setlist mixed fan favorites with newer material, keeping longtime listeners satisfied while also showcasing the band’s continued evolution. Songs like “White Washed” and “Marianas Trench” generated some of the loudest reactions of the night, with the entire floor moving in sync.
Beyond just the music, the overall production elevated the performance. The lighting design complemented the band’s intensity without overshadowing the performance itself, and the venue’s size made the experience feel intimate despite the large turnout.
This was my second experience covering am August Burns Red show. They were just as intense this time around. It’s easy to see why they have such a strong following. They have a new album coming out in about a month, “Season of Surrender”. I’m sure their fanbase is chomping at the bit to get their hands on it. If metalcore is your preference, this is a tour you should not miss!
Photos by The Pit Magazine photographer, Bob DeHart Photography in York, Nebraska. ©2026.
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