Orville Peck :: Abbie Callahan
November 5, 2026
Landmark Credit Union Live, Milwaukee WI
Shot & Written by Keslie Barlow
On Thursday November 5th, Orville Peck, with support from Abbie Callahan, rocked Milwaukee. Landmark Credit Union Live quickly filled with fans who were ready for a night of phenomenal live music, and queer joy.
Abbie Callahan took the stage first and I was immediately enchanted by her vibrant stage presence, and bright voice. Her music was boppy, filled with attitude, and undeniably toe-tapping. I would personally like to deem her the Zara Larsson of country-pop, as her style was girly and eccentric in the best way. Commanding the stage, Abbie serenaded us with songs like βSimon Saysβ, and βDrag, Queenβ ββ¦for her hatersβ¦β. During her set, Callahan expressed that she loves Milwaukee, and that before the show, she had fun playing shuffleboard a bar with her band. Abbieβs iconic opening set ended with βOptimysticβ, the song that Orville heard that made him ask her on this tour. Her bubbly personality, and carefree vibe complimented Orville Peck, and made her the perfect opener.
Orville Peck took the stage next, with an elaborate stage setup that resembled a saloon with a slot machine, foosball table, and more. His band, came out, and interacted with the environment before his name went up in lights, and Orville took the stage. The set was powerful with songs across all of his eras including βBig Olβ Houseβ, βRehab Bluesβ, βAtchafalayaβ (with band member and close friend Emily Rose), βRun Out Of Roadβ, and βCβmon Baby, Cryβ. Orville wooed fans with earnest songs about his life experience, especially his time in rehab and his struggles with addictions. This is the main theme of his new album, and the vulnerability resonated with fans across the venue. Orvilleβs collaboration with his band brought a sense of connectedness that was touching to watch. I was also wowed by the professionalism of Orville Peck and his band when they navigated a sound issue with the speakers. The show had to take a temporary pause to address it, but when they started up again they rolled seamlessly back into their set with βDrive Me, Crazyβ, a song dedicated to truckers, especially the one who was in the audience this night.
Orville Peck is a fantastic musician who beautifully represents the breadth of talent in the LGBT+ community with his richly gruff voice. This leg of tour will continue through November 22nd, and if Orville is coming to a city near you, I highly recommend that you check out one of his shows.