If you attended the Gully Boys performance on Oct. 27, you might have had the special privilege of being one of the first people to watch the opening act’s first performance at St. Olaf. The opener, NOSLO, is a rocking combination of the musical talents of Jake Olson ’24, Mark Jesmer ’23, Henry Specker ’23, Pete Carlen ’22, and Avery Nevins ’25. With songs ranging from passionate originals to leveled up covers, this band had the whole audience on their feet and cheering for more.
Jesmer, the charismatic frontman, immediately connected with the crowd through his powerful vocals and enthralling stage presence. With a captivating smile and an infectious enthusiasm, he had the audience hanging on every word. Jesmer’s stage presence was electrifying: he engaged with the crowd, danced around the stage, and gave a performance that none of us will be able to stop thinking about anytime soon.
The band’s instrumental prowess was on full display as well. Olson’s and Carlen’s guitar work was nothing short of stellar, with breathtaking solos that had the crowd cheering. Specker’s bass grooves added depth and groove to every song, while Nevins’ passionate performance on the drum kit drove the rhythm with precision and flair.
One of the standout moments of the night was when NOSLO performed a breathtaking cover of “Viva la Vida” by Coldplay. The audience erupted with applause as the band flawlessly recreated the track while adding their own NOSLO flare. Jesmer’s vocals soared to new heights, sending chills down the spines of those in attendance.
But it wasn’t just about the music — it was also the band’s incredible stage presence that made the evening unforgettable. The camaraderie and chemistry among the band members were evident, creating a genuine and heartwarming connection with the audience. NOSLO wasn’t just performing — they were sharing a piece of their souls with everyone present.
In the end, the weekend’s performance by NOSLO was a testament to the band’s exceptional musical talents and their ability to connect with their audience on a profound level. Their unforgettable performance left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to be there, and it’s clear that NOSLO is headed for headlining gigs and a loyal following. Their weekend show was just a glimpse of the incredible journey ahead, and I for one, cannot wait to see what they do next.
Catch their next show on Nov. 11 at the Contented Cow, right here in Northfield.
