Midnight Special

Midnight Special

Matthew Shafer, a.k.a. Uncle Kracker, has always liked to evoke nostalgia in his music (much like his old employer Kid Rock). Kracker wants to re-create the feel of vintage records with an injection of modern style. For 2012's Midnight Special, he's found his way to country music. Much like Staind's Aaron Lewis, Kracker slips into his new genre of choice with experienced collaborators to help make the transition seamless. Producer Keith Stegall—who's twiddled knobs for Alan Jackson, George Jones, and Randy Travis—provides a letter-perfect setting for these country-inspired tunes. "Four Letter Word" rocks with the feel of a Toby Keith song, while "Nobody's Sad on a Saturday Night" sounds like an actual long-lost Keith track, so complete is its mastery of the modern country genre. "When I Close My Eyes" slows the tempo for a convincing ballad. What Kracker lacks in twang he makes up in enthusiasm. Hardcore country folks may not be totally convinced, but pop fans will surely enjoy the good-time feel. 

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