South campus boiled in a melting pot of music genres this past weekend when the annual Big Free Concert brought together both national and local artists to perform on one stage.

The large soundstage, colonies of port-a-potties and wet muddy soil made the concert easily comparable to any outdoor festival; however, there was no mud slinging, fires or moshing.

Rain and cold weather made for a dismal first half of the concert. My Beloved Tragedy, a local band, opened the show and kept the crowd entertained. Although it was cold and wet, My Beloved Tragedy put on a great set, which proved to be a theme of the night.

The next acts, KTB and We Are the Fury, suffered most from the weather. The crowd wavered as the weather progressed, leaving a few bystanders, to enjoy the concert from the warmth of a dorm hallway. The view from the small window was about the same as one would get standing behind a tall person, and the booming speakers did not allow one to escape the concert.

Teddy Geiger, a rising star despite his stint on VH-1’s “In Search of the New Partridge Family,” attracted a crowd willing to bear the weather. The 17-year-old proved to be a heartthrob with a fan-base that rivals his predecessors. His hit “For You I Will (Confidence)” is catchy, even the hundredth time each day you hear it. It is pop-rock or pop with a bite at its best.

And MC Chris – It is always refreshing to see different creative juices flowing.

Jurassic 5 was easily the crowd favorite. They used their hype and energy to captivate the audience and attract more and more faces. In a sea of umbrellas, there were bodies moving to the thumping beat, a feat that only true hip-hop music can accomplish. Jurassic 5 made the show a success, mainly due to their longevity in the industry. They have probably played more than their fair share of soggy concerts, which did not affect their set at all.

The problem with the concert was that it seemed to drag. In between sets there would be a silence which was as boring as it was annoying. The rain became entertaining, at times.

Jason Mraz closed the show by playing a rousing set. He was most entertaining when he reminded the crowd that although they may not see their mother for Mother’s Day, that they should treat themselves to brunch because they are “bad motherfuckers.” I am sure some people in the crowd followed his advice.

The turnout couldn’t possibly be what OUAB expected and security turned up later in the night to combat the drunks.

The Big Free Concert is anticipated each year, and while this year may not have been the best, OUAB should take this as a lesson learned to plan a better event.

Although Mother Nature will have her way, and that can’t be changed, the atmosphere could have used a bit of more flair. OUAB should consider having souvenir booths with merchandise and food stands selling fattening treats. It would offer guests something to do other than flee the rain and retreat to the nearest residence halls.