Joe Knap and his son, Neal, circa 2001.

by Tim McMahan, Lazy-i.com

Joe Knapp and his band Son, Ambulance are returning to the stage tonight at The Waiting Room after more than four years’ absence. Hear Nebraska has some of the backstory here.

Joe always has been one of my favorite songwriters, local or not. I first met him in the ‘late 90s and first interviewed him in 2001 when Saddle Creek released his split LP with Bright Eyes called Oh Holy Fools. From a songwriting standpoint, Joe stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Conor. But in the end, only one would reach national stardom.

The event is being held in honor of Rob Bass’ 40th Birthday. Also helping celebrate are InDreama and Routine Escorts. $5, 9 p.m. Don’t let the wind scare you…

Also tonight, Detroit band The Rushmore’s are headlining at O’Leaver’s with The Decatures and Michael Wunder and the Uninspired. $5, 9:30 p.m.

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Read Tim McMahan’s blog daily at Lazy-i.com — an online music magazine that includes feature interviews, reviews and news. The focus is on the national indie music scene with a special emphasis on the best original bands in the Omaha area. Copyright © 2014 Tim McMahan. All rights reserved.