Written by Antonina Schubert
There’s a special kind of magic that happens when thousands of voices come together under the summer sky, united by music and energy. That’s exactly what The Lumineers delivered during their sold-out show at Riverbend Music Center in Cincinnati, OH. As the third stop on the North American leg of their Automatic World Tour, the band filled the night with infectious energy, heartfelt moments, and an electric connection that kept the crowd buzzing from start to finish.
Wesley Schultz and Jeremiah Fraites were joined onstage by longtime bandmates Stelth Ulvang, Byron Isaacs, Lauren Jacobson, and Brandon Miller — a group whose chemistry shines in every beat. Stelth, in particular, brought a wild, infectious energy that elevated the show from great to electric. Schultz and Fraites tossing tambourines back and forth during “Ophelia” was a playful reminder that even in front of thousands, they’re still having fun.
Wesley Schultz and Jeremiah Fraites were joined onstage by longtime bandmates Stelth Ulvang, Byron Isaacs, Lauren Jacobson, and Brandon Miller. A group whose chemistry shines in every beat. Stelth’s wild, infectious energy gave the performance an added spark, moving constantly and giving every moment on stage a sense of urgency and joy. During “Ophelia,” Schultz and Fraites tossed tambourines back and forth with big grins, a lighthearted moment that captured the spirit of the night perfectly.
The setlist was stacked with fan favorites, deeper cuts, and standout moments, including a powerful rendition of “Dead Sea.” As Wesley held the final note of the lyric “Would you stay the night,” the crowd erupted with applause for over a minute, the kind of thunderous appreciation that said, We’re so glad you’re here.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Lumineers show without a few magical surprises. During “BRIGHTSIDE,” Wesley left the stage and made his way through the crowd, all the way into the middle of the lawn. Fans lit up as he passed by, reaching for high fives and singing along with pure joy on their faces. That kind of closeness and energy is hard to describe, but it’s what sets The Lumineers apart.
One of the most special moments of the night came when Cincinnati native Michael Marcagi joined the band for “Charlie Boy.” Marcagi, who had previously opened for them during the EU and UK leg of the tour, shared online how he grew up going to shows at Riverbend. Watching him take the stage with the band at his hometown venue was a full-circle moment that added even more meaning to an already emotional song.
Even offstage, the band made the night feel personal. At the merch booth, you could snag a city-exclusive Cincinnati tour shirt, which added a fun and meaningful touch. While waiting in line, I spotted a group of six friends dancing and laughing together while singing along to the band’s set echoing from the stage. It was a beautiful snapshot of what live music is all about: connection, emotion, and making memories you’ll talk about for years.
The Lumineers put their whole heart into every performance. You feel it in the music, the movement, and the way they connect with the crowd. It’s an experience you don’t want to miss.
If this show was any indication of what’s to come, this tour is going to be something special. The Lumineers are on the road across North America through the fall, and if you have a chance to see them, don’t wait. You’ll walk away already wanting to experience it all again.
For tour dates, VIP packages, and ticket info, head to thelumineers.com/tour and see when they’re coming to a city near you.
The Lumineers
Riverbend Music Center | Cincinnati, OH | July 8, 2025
