A Night of ’90s Nostalgia: Rhythm & Brews 2026 Brings the Hits to Lake Oconee

From Sugar Ray and Vertical Horizon to a perfect fall evening at Sandy Creek Barn, this year's festival delivered a night to remember.

Some nights just have the right combination of music, atmosphere, and energy. The 2026 Rhythm & Brews Festival, in collaboration with Reynolds Lake Oconee, was one of them.

On Friday, October 23, nearly 1,000 guests gathered at Sandy Creek Barn for an evening of live music, great food, and a healthy dose of ’90s nostalgia. With Sugar Ray and Vertical Horizon headlining the festival, a talented young Georgia musician opening the show, and crisp fall weather setting the scene, Lake Country couldn't have asked for a better night.

The Perfect Start to a Fall Evening

Before the first guitar riff echoed across Sandy Creek Barn, guests had plenty of time to settle into the festival atmosphere.

The evening began with a complimentary 90-minute beer and wine tasting, giving attendees a chance to sample beverages, catch up with friends, and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting.

And Mother Nature certainly cooperated. The clear skies and chilly autumn temperatures made for ideal concert weather, especially once the music started and the crowd warmed up.

VIP guests enjoyed prime viewing areas, comfortable lounge seating, convenient access to bars, and offerings from award-winning food trucks. General Admission attendees were treated to food prepared by Chef Z and the Reynolds Lake Oconee hospitality team. With shuttle transportation, parking, and event amenities thoughtfully coordinated, guests could focus on enjoying the evening.

Noah Riley Teal Sets the Stage

At just 21 years old, Georgia guitarist and vocalist Noah Riley Teal had the task of getting the musical festivities underway.

He opened his 40-minute set with a haunting rendition of Phil Collins' "In the Air Tonight," immediately showcasing the vocal range and guitar skills that made his performance such a memorable start to the evening.

His combination of soaring vocals and confident musicianship offered a fresh introduction to a night otherwise filled with familiar favorites.

Vertical Horizon Brings the Alternative Rock Favorites

Next up was Vertical Horizon, whose music helped define the alternative rock sound of the late ’90s and early 2000s.

Led by singer-songwriter Matt Scannell, the band delivered a set featuring songs longtime fans know by heart, including "We Are," "Send It Up," "You're a God," and their chart-topping hit "Everything You Want."

For many in the audience, hearing those songs live brought back memories of an era when alternative rock dominated radio playlists.

Vertical Horizon's performance set the stage for an even bigger wave of nostalgia as the evening's headliner prepared to take over.

Sugar Ray and Mark McGrath Bring the Party

If there was one moment when the energy at Sandy Creek Barn shifted into high gear, it was when Mark McGrath and Sugar Ray stepped onto the stage.

With his unmistakable charisma, infectious enthusiasm, and yes, those signature frosted tips, McGrath brought the kind of stage presence that made Sugar Ray a household name in the late ’90s.

The band delivered an 80-minute performance packed with their biggest hits, including "Someday," "Every Morning," "When It's Over," and, of course, "Fly."

But Sugar Ray didn't stop with their own catalog.

The band also mixed in familiar favorites from other artists, including Tears for Fears' "Everybody Wants to Rule the World," The Human League's "Don't You Want Me," and the Backstreet Boys' "I Want It That Way."

It was a playful trip through pop music history that kept the crowd engaged and singing along.

For fans who grew up with these songs on the radio, the performance was a reminder of just how much fun it is to hear them live.

More Than a Concert

While the music was undoubtedly the centerpiece, Rhythm & Brews has become a Lake Country favorite because of the experience surrounding the performances.

The setting at Sandy Creek Barn, the opportunity to gather with friends, the food and beverages, and the cool October air all contributed to an evening that felt like a celebration of fall in Georgia.

The festival also continues to build on its reputation for bringing nationally recognized performers to the area. Following a 2025 lineup featuring Blues Traveler and Spin Doctors, this year's Sugar Ray and Vertical Horizon performances added another memorable chapter to the festival's history.

The event was made possible through the collaboration between the Oconee Performing Arts Society and Reynolds Lake Oconee, with additional support from Athens BMW and Visit Lake Oconee.

Until Next Year!

As the final songs faded and guests made their way home, one thing was clear: the 2026 Rhythm & Brews Festival had delivered another memorable evening of music and community.

To everyone who joined us at Sandy Creek Barn, thank you for making this year's festival such a special occasion.

We look forward to seeing you again next year!