Mansfield artists unite for ‘Nightmare at the Source’ Halloween showcase on Oct. 17

MANSFIELD – Smoke machines, flashing lights, live music and a blur of costumes will be the scene Friday night, Oct. 17 in the Richland Source basement. 

‘Nightmare at the Source’ is this year’s theme. The show is a collaboration between Newsroom After Hours, Thuh Koz, U.P.N.O Music and Potent Studios. 

Admission is free, beer is free (21+) and seven local hip-hop and metal artists will take the stage with original, high-energy sets.

All are welcome, but parental discretion is advised. V&M food truck will be on site serving late-night eats. Phoenix beer will be served, but guests are also welcome to bring their own food and drinks. 

Costumes are highly encouraged. 

Doors open at 6 p.m. and set times for artists are listed below. The show takes place in the Richland Source basement. The Source is located at 40 W. Fourth St. in downtown Mansfield, but guests should enter in the back of the building from the W. Temple Court alley. 

Let’s get to know the artists. 

DJ Dro Jack

Behind every wild moment throughout the night will be DJ Dro Jack, the pulse of the party. As the DJ, he’ll bring non-stop energy, smooth transitions and will ensure the vibe is alive before, during and after each set. 

ZUC

Set time: 6:45-7 p.m.

Hailing from the heart of Mansfield, Cortez Fuller — known as ZUC — is a rising rap artist. He describes his style as raw lyricism, relentless energy and unapologetic storytelling.

“Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the movement, get to the show early because my set is one you won’t want to miss,” Fuller said. 

GNL Biggs

Set time: 7:10-7:25 p.m.

John Goodwin, aka GNL Biggs, is an introspective, lyrical hip-hop artist from Mansfield. Goodwin said that his performances are about more than just hype – they’re about honesty and communicating his lived experience. 

“I’m painting a picture. I want people to feel me, my story and where I come from,” Goodwin said. 

“It’s about offering a different perspective than what you might typically think of with hip-hop. I want to show the intelligence of the genre,” he said. “It’s not necessarily always about the balling but the downs and reflective moments too. I want to speak on that, basically being a real individual that we all are instead of a rap image or persona.”

Oiun

Set time: 7:40-7:55

Oiun is a Prog metal band from Mansfield. Lead vocalist Tom Hirst said he is excited to play this show. Oiun doesn’t have music streaming yet, but Hirst said their style most closely resembles the band The Contortionist.

“We don’t have any songs out yet, we just finished tracking our first single and we’re waiting for it to get mastered,” Hirst said.

“Newsroom After Hours Halloween is the best – great sound, classic garage band feel and everyone shows out for it,” he said. “It’s a blast. We’re pumped to be a part of it!”

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Young Legend

Set time: 8:10-8:25

Young Legend is TJ Gilbert’s stage name. He’s a rising hip-hop artist from Mansfield that promises big vibes, high energy and a powerhouse set. Gilbert described his music as similar to a lot of Detroit / Midwest rap that has come out lately. 

“I love the After Hours venue because every time I’ve performed there, it’s been nothing but pure love and energy from the audience,” Gilbert said.

“Be prepared to jump around and lose your breath by the end of my performance because it’s about to be one hell of a show.”

Vaundoom

Set time: 8:35-8:55

Vaughn Robinson, from Mansfield, goes by Vaundoom on stage and is no stranger to many of Mansfield’s biggest local shows. He promises to bring top-tier legacy beats, bars with the might of champions and energy that will erupt the entire block. 

“My set list will be a mix of skill and hype that can entertain all audiences. Vaundoom is for the children,” Robinson said. 

Don’t miss one of Mansfield G.O.A.T.S, certified legend, Vaundoom. 

Thuh Koz

Set time: 9-9:20 p.m.

Speaking of Mansfield’s greatest, Jamison and Tika Milteer — better known as Thuh Kôz — stand among the city’s top hip-hop acts. The pair’s talent, chemistry and hometown pride make them standouts in Mansfield’s music scene.

Their set promises high-energy moments, a lot of love and a lot of fun. 

“Newsroom After Hours is honestly one of our favorite spots to perform,” Milteer said. “The energy’s always on point, the crowd is super receptive and the setup just lets you get the full experience of what each artist is about.”

“Before you come out, definitely check out all of our music! One of our newer singles ‘Pissed’ featuring AGB is a must-listen. Of course, listen to ‘Love Me Like You,’ our newest love song. Plus, we’re doing ‘Baewatch’ with Ka$ino Kash live on stage, so you’ll get a taste of the new and the classics.”

“And one more little heads-up: We’ve got another special guest joining us on stage, Asiago, who’s going to bring some extra flavor to the set.”

Aimpoint

Set time: 9:35-10 p.m.

The night will close with Aimpoint, a heavy hardcore band from Mansfield. The group gained some national attention earlier this year when they opened at Inkcarceration’s official pre-party at Warehouse Tavern.

Lead vocalist Jerrick Feagin said After Hours is his favorite Mansfield venue to play and promises to bring pure energy. 

“I’ve been to every Richland Source Halloween show since it began and the goal this year is to make it the best one yet,” Feagin said. 

“I want the hip hop people that don’t even really listen to our music jumping in the pit. Listen to all our songs, learn the words and come grab the mic and scream some S#!T with me.”