Carbondale’s beloved Off the Rail Concert Series continues to bring music, energy and togetherness to the community. City of Carbondale’s Tourism and Special Event Coordinator, Dina Haun, shared that this year marks the fifth season of Off the Rail. The concert, part of a long-running tradition, highlighted both the band’s deep connection with local audiences and the series’ role in giving musicians a platform.

This weekend, the crowd was treated to a special moment as Lucas Wayne & the Cottonmouths took the stage as an opening act—for the one hundredth time.

“It’s about fun, family-friendly, free entertainment that highlights Carbondale’s incredible music scene,” Haun said. 

The series, held outdoors in downtown Carbondale, has become a staple of summer and fall weekends. Families, students and longtime residents gather for free live music, food vendors, and a chance to celebrate the area’s diverse talent.

“These events are for the community, so if there’s something you’d like to see, let us know. We really do mean it when we ask who you want to see in Carbondale,” Haun said. “We want people to know this is a place for SIU students, the Carbondale family, and beyond. This is for them.”

For lead singer Lucas Wayne, performing at the Off the Rails Concert Series in Carbondale is more than just another gig. Though he’s not a Carbondale native, Wayne has been embraced by the local community through his band, Lucas Wayne & The Cottonmouths.

“It means a lot to me to get to play this community event, when I’m not necessarily from this community, but have kind of been accepted into it. It’s a great honor,” Wayne said.

Wayne describes his music as a blend of genres he calls “Americana,” combining elements of country, soul and rock into a sound that’s uniquely his own.

“I like to tell people that it’s kind of a new sound… something different than what you’re normally hearing. That’s the whole goal — to create something new,” Wayne explained.

He hopes his performances inspire audiences, especially younger fans who might be seeing their first live show. 

“If anybody takes anything away, it would be a bit of inspiration to go and create, and to make art in some form,” Wayne said. Beyond entertaining, live shows allow him to connect personally with the community.

The Cottonmouths are celebrating a milestone at Off the Rails, marking their 100th show as a band. Their journey has taken them across multiple states, with memorable moments along the way.

Fans can follow the band’s journey on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook, or visit LucasWaynemusic.com to stream their music and purchase merchandise. In addition to performing, Wayne also hosts “The Groove,” a diverse local radio show on 91.1 WDBX every Wednesday from 1 to 3 p.m.

Audience members were just as excited about the headliner that played later that night, Chicago Farmer. Concertgoer and international SIU student Tatiana Castillo who has been attending the series since its early days.

“I just love how colorful it is, how people are sitting, hanging out — children, older people, young people — everyone looks relaxed, comfortable, and happy,” Castillo said, describing how the atmosphere makes the concerts a highlight of their week.

Another attendee, Miguel Alvarez, shared that the mix of familiar local acts and new performers keeps them coming back. 

“We’ve been here at least two years and have made very good friends. Everyone in Carbondale is so friendly with international students,” Alvarez said, adding  that he and Castillo are from Colombia.

9/6/25- 90’s Kidz & The Swamp Tigers

9/20/25 – Hemp, Hops & Shrooms- Colt Ball & The Git Down / Sturg & Friends 

10/3/25- Brass Queens / Taylor Steele & the Love Preachers / SIU Family Weekend

10/24/25- SIU Homecoming/Carbondale Halloween Bash- Shutting Down the Strip!  

Staff Reporter Yahri Edmond can be reached at [email protected].

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