September 16, 2021 – Barnato Lounge – Omaha, NE

For over 20 years, Uncle Kracker has been entertaining fans with his unique voice and Country/Rock blend of music.  Kracker, born Matthew Shafer, was Kid Rock’s DJ, until the year 2000 when he released his first solo album.  His smash hit, “Follow Me” spent over 10 months on the Billboard charts in 2001, and coincidentally, happens to be my favorite song of his.

Uncle Kracker was set to take the stage at the Barnato Lounge in Omaha, Nebraska on Thursday evening September 16th.  I had never been to the Barnato before, and upon my arrival, I was given my press pass, and given a tour of the nightclub.  In all honesty, I hadn’t heard of it before because I don’t venture to that area of town too often.  The Barnato is beautiful.  Lush surroundings with chandelier lighting and an illuminated selection of spirits really add to the ambiance. It’s the perfect setting for more intimate concerts, with a stage that’s level to the ground, and seating throughout.

Before Uncle Kracker performed, the crowd was introduced to the opening band, After Midtown.  Joined onstage with their drummer and guitarist, After Midtown consists of Adam Ernst and Michael Rotundo.  The duo hasn’t been together for too long, but my prediction is that they’ll be making quite a name for themselves in no time.  The two have a great chemistry together, and if I didn’t know better, I would have thought they were related or best friends.  They’re both small town boys with a knack for creating awesome music and writing songs.  As I was listening to them, I kept thinking to myself, “Why haven’t I heard of these guys?  They’re awesome!”  Their 10-song set had the crowd at Barnato on their feet and clapping their hands.  I couldn’t quite put my finger on it, but their sound reminded me of a mix between Sam Hunt and Florida Georgia Line.  They’ve got a definite Rock vibe, but their Country roots and inspirations are what shines through.  These kids are phenomenal, and I predict huge things for them in the future.
Make sure to check out their website for tour information, merchandise, music news, and more!
https://www.aftermidtown.com/

After Midtown Set List:

• Raise One To It
• All Night Long
• Down Like That
• Friday Night
• Come Over
• Shortcuts
• Put Me Back
• You Found Me (The Fray Cover)
• Ain’t Doing Something Right
• Boys Like Us

After a brief intermission, a short video played introducing Uncle Kracker, and the crowd went nuts.  Even after two decades, this guy knows how to put on a show.  From the opening song, “Saturday Night”, through his 17-song set, Kracker had the crowd in the palm of his hand.  Even though I was a little disappointed not to hear a few of my Uncle Kracker favorites, he more than made up for it by playing, “The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers, “Follow Me”, and “All Summer Long.”  Uncle Kracker was joined onstage with two guitarists, a drummer, and a female on the keyboards.  It was very apparent he was having a good time, and at one point, he even grabbed a beer and made a toast to the crowd.  The Barnato was the perfect setting for this concert, and allowed fans a chance to get up close and personal with Uncle Kracker.  I’m so glad I got to see him live!

Uncle Kracker Set List:

• Video Intro
• Saturday Night
• Good 2 Be Me
• Reason 2 Drink
• Memphis Soul Song
• Floatin’
• The Gambler (Kenny Rogers Cover)
• Follow Me
• Lonely Let’s You Down
• Yeah x3 (Chris Brown Cover)
• Little While
• Window Up Above
• Sweet 16
• Sun Goes Down
• Drift Away

Encore:

• Take It Easy
• Smile
• All Summer Long

After Midnight

Uncle Kracker