There’s one songwriter in town that gets talked about a lot (even in this column), but he’s not the only good one around.

In fact, it’s one of his roadies that made an impression on me lately.

Beginning last Thursday, local group Con Dios began a “residency” at O’Leaver’s Pub on Saddle Creek Road. I was there for the inaugural show, but you can catch the residency as it continues tonight and then next Thursday, Jan. 20.

The band is a local supergroup of sorts, featuring Dan McCarthy of McCarthy Trenching on keyboards, Matt Maginn of Cursive on bass and Pat Oakes of Ladyfinger on the drums.

Leading the group is Phil Schaffart, a lanky dude I recognized initially as a Bright Eyes guitar tech (more on that later).

Who knew the guy was a songwriter? Not me, honestly.

But I was pleasantly surprised.

After a few problems with the ancient O’Leaver’s PA, the band got started in front of a crowd of about 40 (pretty full for the small pub).

“Is everybody ready to make a little love?” Schaffart said to laughs.

There was more funny onstage banter, but I can’t print most of it.

Schaffart’s light voice was layered over maybe the most solid rhythm section in town while he strummed an acoustic guitar and McCarthy (one of my favorite local piano players) added melody.

It was an acoustic rock sound that sounded more radio-friendly than this band’s strong indie cred might have you believe. I mean that as a compliment.

For the band’s third show ever (as McCarthy later informed me), they were solid.

Aside from the music itself, Schaffart’s songwriting was impressive. I was also told that he has a library of songs that the band is excited to tackle.

Favorites from the set were “Change Won’t Change” and “Creek On the Hill.” (Check ‘em out on Omaha.com/go)

Following Con Dios’ excellent set were two short ones by McCarthy Trenching. The first included only McCarthy on piano and a bandmate on stand-up bass. Another excellent songwriter, another excellent set.

As for Con Dios, unfortunately the band’s Omaha gigs will be short-lived for the time being. Schaffart is headed out the door to do his guitar tech/production manager thing with Bright Eyes for what is most likely going to be a year-long tour or more.

They’ll be performing intermittently during that time, but I suggest getting yourself to O’Leaver’s tonight or next Thursday for some good music (and have a beer while you’re at it).