FARGO, N.D. — For over a decade, local musician Brandon “Bnickle” Thompson has been a familiar face outside sold-out concerts and big games, armed with nothing but a guitar, a smile, and a handmade sign reading “Seeking Spare Ticket”.
After crashing hundreds of events ranging from Vikings games to major concerts—often at a high success rate—Thompson is flipping the script. Instead of asking for a ticket, he’s finally the one issuing them.
Thompson will host his own headline event, “The Smashball,” on Friday, February 28, 2026, at The Aquarium in downtown Fargo.
A Celebration of Community (and Antics)
Bnickle describes The Smashball as “a reason to celebrate for no reason at all,” or “every day except your birthday”. It isn’t just a standard concert; it’s designed to be a blend of live music, game show fun, and community connection.
Attendees can look forward to a mix of entertainment, including:
- Interactive Games: Competitions like Wii Bowling and Giant Jenga will take place right on stage.
- Prizes: The night features door prizes from local businesses and a major grand prize drawing at the end of the evening.
- Live Music: Five diverse acts will perform, covering genres from punk and folk to R&B and electronic.
New Music from a Familiar Face
The event marks the debut of Thompson’s new band, Bnickle & The Quarter Note Club. They will be previewing songs from his upcoming album, Occupations, which mixes his punk rock roots with ’90s country influences, piano, and ukulele.
Thompson says the goal of his street performing was always about meeting people rather than just getting into the show. Now, he wants to bring that same spirit indoors.
“I’ve spent years seeking tickets to other people’s events,” Thompson says. “Now it’s time for you to find one for mine”.
If you go…
For tickets and more information, visit bnickle.com/smashball.
