X-Pollination Jubilation

The inaugural X-Pollination Jubilation variety show was built around a simple idea Jeremy kept coming back to: “my brand is your brand.” Not as a slogan, but as a way of thinking. The night was about supporting each other, and creating space where artists could genuinely benefit from being part of something bigger than themselves. Cowbell helped set that tone from the start, renting the Aggie Theatre, covering the costs to keep the event free for the community, and making sure musicians were paid in a way that respected their time and talent. The result was a show that felt generous, open, and grounded in real support for the arts. More than 40 musicians and visual artists came together for an evening that truly lived up to its name: cross pollination jubilation. Different sounds, styles, and creative voices collided in the best possible way. Each band stepped on stage with one shared constraint. Two songs only. One cover, one original. Short sets, no filler, just a sharp burst of personality and creativity. The format kept the energy constantly shifting and made every performance feel deliberate. Comedy still found its way into the mix. While comedians didn’t perform live, the night featured a video release with DadBod (comedians Jacob Erdman and Dan Jones, with "fanboy" Matt Mahern) adding humor and personality to the experience. Meanwhile, inside the venue, the space behind the soundboard transformed into a lively creative marketplace. Artists and makers sold prints, handmade work, merch, and wonderfully unexpected finds. It became its own kind of stage, buzzing with conversation, discovery, and connection. Yes, performers playfully competed for the title of “X-Pollinator Jubilator,” but the real takeaway was the feeling in the room. Collaboration over competition. Community over clout. Creativity shared instead of siloed. More than a show, it felt like a scene coming together.