In the heart of Hagerstown, Maryland, lies a new music venue - Hub City Vinyl. Attached to the state’s largest record store, the venue welcomes musicians from all over to take the stage. On the night of December 6, the venue hosted two special musical guests- ViRG and Oh He Dead. 

The night kicked off with ViRG, whose unique blend of angelic vocals, funky synths, and whimsical stage presence captivated the audience. The band, a four-piece ensemble decked out in sparkly capes featuring drums, keyboards, and a vocalist, Piano Whitman, who effortlessly alternated between singing and playing synths, delivered a set that was both ethereal and dynamic.

The lead singer’s whispery, angelic voice filled the venue, creating an intimate yet otherworldly atmosphere. Highlights included the band’s newest song, "Feels Right," which was released on December 5th and seamlessly combined 90s pop-rock undertones with smooth synth work.

The set’s playful energy peaked during "Deja Vu," where an unexpected dog bark sample delighted the crowd, causing giggles and awe. The band’s lighter moments were balanced by introspective tracks like Sing for You, an ode to the challenges of being a musician in a relationship. Meanwhile, the live artist “Rat King” quietly assembled a LEGO camera on stage, adding a quirky and memorable touch to the performance.

The venue’s ambient lighting, cozy seating, and stocked bar enhanced the dreamy experience, making ViRG's set the perfect soundtrack for a relaxing end to the week.

Following ViRG, Oh He Dead brought the house down with their high-energy, soulful performance - something that fans have come to expect. The five-piece band exploded onto the stage with a jammy intro, transitioning into the lead singer’s raspy and passionate vocals, supported by the harmonic talents of their lead vocalist who joined the band on keys and synth. The band’s five-part harmonies and electrifying guitar solos set the tone for an unforgettable show.

One standout moment came during "Cover Me", a soulful ballad that featured a tender guitar intro by another member shared between the two bands Alex Salser, organ-like keys, and a crescendo of powerhouse vocals. The crowd erupted during a guitar solo, only to be put back into awe by the bassist’s smooth vocals leading the next verse. The song’s emotional depth was matched only by its technical brilliance.

Oh He Dead’s ability to flow seamlessly between songs kept the audience entranced. A track with bossa nova undertones explored heartache, resonating deeply with its poignant lyrics, while another song took a personal turn, addressing the lead singer’s complicated relationship with her father. The band’s chemistry was undeniable, especially as they danced and laughed their way through an energetic cover of Sledgehammer that rivaled the original. 

Oh He Dead wrapped the night with a thrilling drum solo that segued into their groove-heavy anthem, "California". The band’s encore performance of Amy Winehouse’s "Valerie" was the perfect closing note, leaving the crowd hooting for more.

Both bands have upcoming December shows that are guaranteed to end the year out with a bang.  ViRG can be seen at their upcoming show for Fine Tuned in Westminster, Maryland, on December 12th (Ticket Link). Oh He Dead can be seen back in the DMV on December 31st at The Anthem for a New Year’s Eve celebration you will not want to miss (Ticket Link).