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The Faint performs "I Disappear"

In 1994 in Omaha, Nebraska, a band called Norman Bailer was started by Conor Oberst (of Bright Eyes and Desaparecidos), Joel Peterson, and Clark and Todd Baechle. With the departure of Oberst soon after, the band reconformed as the Faint, adding Jacob Thiele on keyboards in a move that would eventually define them as a rock/synth/pop band echoing the sounds of the 80s. The Faint’s second release, Blank Wave Arcade (Saddle Creek), cemented the band’s reputation within the Omaha area as it moved toward a dance/techno sound. The follow up, Danse Macabre, included the talents of death metal guitarist Dapose (formerly of the band LEAD) and finalized the band’s lineup. Danse Macabre was a national success, as was its follow up, 2005’s Wet From Birth, echoing the sounds of retro bands the Cure, Soft Cell and Heaven 17. Groups like Cursive, Desaparecidos and the Faint — along with the acoust-icky poster band for the scene, Bright Eyes—have cemented Omaha’s reputation as the Athens, GA or Seattle, WA of a new era. The Faint is rumored to be at work on producing a new album, which may include a move from Saddle Creek. Also along is NYC duo Services, in a first time national tour, and Transmission Dance Party’s DJ Bill Page opens the show.

Thursday, May 24 at 8pm (doors at 7pm). The Town Ballroom, 681 Main St. (852-3900) www.townballroom.com. $16/advance (www,tickets.com)-$18/at door