Break the Bank Brings Music, Skate Culture, and Community to McCook

McCOOK, Neb. — On Saturday night, something truly unexpected happened behind the ArtBank: a music and skateboarding event that felt fresh, inclusive, and unlike anything McCook has seen before.

“Break the Bank” was a collaboration between organizers Brigham Larington, Devon Strunk, and Elise Larington, who helped bring the evening to life. It combined live music, a skate competition, and a vibrant atmosphere—without a drop of alcohol, and with free hot dogs and water provided by Renegade Removal. The event started early and wrapped by 10 p.m., making it family-friendly from start to finish.

The weather couldn’t have been more perfect. Skaters—young and old—took turns showing off tricks on ramps and a custom-built skate box. One young girl entered the competition but quickly bowed out when she realized she didn’t yet know any tricks. Still, she walked away with a raffle prize: a new skate deck. Her smile said it all.

The music lineup was diverse and energetic:

• DJ Rugburn kicked off the night with an electronic, synth-based set. I arrived a bit late and missed most of it, but the vibe was already building.

• El Jefe, a local one-man band and the organizer behind Pondstock, played next. I’ve heard Vic Giron perform before, and he has a real talent for reading the crowd. He kept the momentum going strong.

• The Dinks, a married duo from Kearney, brought a gritty blend of punk and blues they call “dirty blues.” After their set, I had the chance to sit with them inside the ArtBank. They were down-to-earth, working day jobs—he’s in maintenance at The Buckle, she does embroidery at a print shop and were genuinely impressed with the gallery. They plan to return to McCook with their family to explore more.

• Cold Glock closed out the night with what Brigham had described to me earlier as “heavy heavy metal.” My husband had watched a video ahead of time, so we had braced ourselves for something intense—and it was. Loud, angry energy, lots of swearing, but surprisingly rhythmic and layered. Even though it’s not my usual taste (or what I’d cue up on Apple Music), it wasn’t just noise—it had flow, passion, and real stage presence. (Also three of the four members are from McCook)

What struck me most wasn’t just the music or the skating, but the atmosphere. Everyone was respectful. There were kids. Parents. Grandparents. I spoke with one grandmother whose grandson was performing, and she beamed with pride. She remarked that back in the ’60s, many parents didn’t understand or appreciate the music of the time — and it’s probably always been that way with each generation. Still, it was meaningful for her to be there, supporting her family and seeing such a unique event unfold in McCook.

The ArtBank was open throughout the evening for restroom use and for people to view the art inside, though I think next time it would be great to highlight that more clearly. With just a little extra signage or promotion, the event could become a true music + skate + art experience.

While I didn’t get an official headcount, I’d estimate at least 100 people attended. And for an all-ages, alcohol-free music event in McCook, that’s something to celebrate.

Would I go again? Absolutely. Even though this isn’t my typical genre, the energy, the creativity, and the sense of community made it one of the most enjoyable events I’ve attended in McCook.