Bright Eyes to Perform Iconic 2005 Albums Live on Tour

Experience Bright Eyes' twin 2005 albums performed live in full at three unforgettable shows next summer.

A Dream Come True for Bright Eyes Fans

If you’ve ever found yourself lost in the heartfelt lyrics and distinctive sounds of Bright Eyes, get ready for something truly special. The band is gearing up to perform their twin 2005 albums, I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning and Digital Ash in a Digital Urn, in their entirety on tour next summer. This will be the first time Bright Eyes celebrates their back catalog in such a way, and fans couldn’t be more excited.

These landmark albums represent two very different sides of Bright Eyes' musical soul, and hearing them live, from start to finish, offers a unique window into Conor Oberst’s creative genius. The shows are scheduled for:

• May 6 at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, just outside Denver
• May 23 at the iconic Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles
• June 6 at Forest Hills Stadium near New York City

Each night will feature a special opener — Tilly and the Wall, the Moldy Peaches, and Built To Spill — adding extra flavor to these already must-see events. Tickets went on sale recently, and if you’re a die-hard fan, you probably already have yours locked down.

Two Albums, Two Worlds

Let’s rewind to January 25, 2005, when Bright Eyes dropped these two albums simultaneously under the Nebraska-based label Saddle Creek. The duo couldn’t have been more contrasting.

I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning leans heavily into folk rock, with Oberst’s voice weaving stories of introspection and urgency, layered over acoustic guitars and heartfelt melodies. It feels like sitting around a campfire with an old friend who’s seen a little too much of the world but still holds onto hope.

On the flip side, Digital Ash in a Digital Urn takes a bold techno and pop detour, experimenting with electronic beats and synths, creating a soundscape that feels futuristic yet deeply personal. It’s that rare mix of organic emotion and digital coldness, a reflection of the mid-2000s fascination with technology’s impact on human experience.

Conor Oberst once explained the theme behind Digital Ash beautifully:

“I think Digital Ash is about the fear of death... I don’t understand mainframes and shit like that very well, but it’s not tangible and I find that amazing... There’s energy that’s very real but has no physical form, and I like to think about that.”

The album wrestles with the ephemeral nature of life, information, and what might lie beyond.

Meanwhile, I’m Wide Awake carries a different vibe:

“It’s gonna be a crazy busy day... It’s a rallying call to get your head on straight; pay attention, you’re gonna have to focus because everything’s gonna happen really fast and you’re gonna have to be on point.”

It’s a wake-up call wrapped in melodies, urging listeners to brace for the hectic journey ahead.

Reflections on 21 Years Later

Fast forward to now, Oberst reflects on the albums with a candid, nostalgic spirit. Celebrating the 21st anniversary of two records born on the same day was an idea that sparked both excitement and a bit of hesitation, but ultimately, the band embraced it.

“I have always hated my birthdays but I love parties,” Oberst admitted. “So when the idea came up to celebrate the 21st anniversary, Nate [Walcott], Mike [Mogis] and I took a long look in our full length mirror and finally said, fuck it, why not?”

Their plan? To bring together longtime friends and collaborators to recreate the magic that these records hold for so many fans. It’s a chance to relive the past, celebrate the present, and create new memories. Oberst signs off warmly:

“Hope to see you there. We are really excited. Love and light.”

FAQ

• When and where will Bright Eyes perform these albums?
  Bright Eyes will perform the full albums on May 6 at Red Rocks (Denver), May 23 at the Hollywood Bowl (Los Angeles), and June 6 at Forest Hills Stadium (New York).
• Are there any opening acts?
  Yes, Tilly and the Wall, the Moldy Peaches, and Built To Spill will open one of the shows each.
• What are the two albums about?
  I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning is a folk-rock album about facing a busy, unpredictable day, while Digital Ash in a Digital Urn explores themes of death and the intangible nature of digital existence.
• Who are the key collaborators for the tour?
  Nate Walcott and Mike Mogis, longtime bandmates, will join Conor Oberst along with other old friends.
• Can I still get tickets?
  Tickets went on sale December 12; check official outlets for availability.

Planning to bring a piece of the magic home? Shop your favorite Bright Eyes album cover posters and memorabilia at our store and keep the spirit of these classic records alive in your space. Shop now.