Jonny Lang Gets Loose in Omaha

Jonny Lang is an amazing talent. He brings crafty guitar playing, showmanship, and a soulful voice to the stage. He brought all of that to the Slowdown in Omaha as he amazed fans with his ninety minute set.

Jonny's musical style has evolved throughout the years. He began as a teenage blues protégé, then transitioned into a certified rocker, and now has won Grammy awards for his gospel music. He put all of his musical faces on display, with his talent and passion being the glue that held them together.

Backed by a six-piece band, he began his set with three songs from his 2006 album 'Turn Around.' Jonny, a devout Christian, let his spiritual side show right out of the gate. 'We can change the world, one person at a time,' he belted out on the opening number. He followed that up with 'Bump in the Road' and 'Turn Around.' At the end of 'Turn Around,' Jonny let out one of his many amazing guitar solos, which drew an uproar from the crowd.

Lang would then satisfy the blues enthusiasts in attendance with A Quitter Never Wins.' The crowd was most appreciative when Lang let out his big guitar solos. There aren't many active performers who can play the guitar as well as Jonny Lang. The Omaha crowd let them know their appreciation on each solo.

Another highlight was Jonny's performance of 'Red Light,' a song from his third album, 'Long Time Coming.' It's a song written by R&B star Anthony Hamilton. Lang did the Hamilton number justice by pouring his soul into the song.

Throughout the concert, Lang's band mates were given time to shine. Mainly Barry Alexander on the drums and former Prince keyboardist, Tommy Barbarella. The band really got to let loose on the main set's last song 'I Am.' Each band member was given a solo as the song turned into a ten minute jam.

Lang returned and gave an encore consisting of his most recognizable songs 'Breakin' Me' and 'Lie To Me.' Then, Jonny Lang and the band took their bows to a standing ovation. This is the third consecutive summer that Jonny has performed at Harrah's Casino in Council Bluffs and those in attendance last night hope it is a tradition that's here to stay.

Up and comer Sharon Little opened up the show with an acoustic set. The set featured just her and one other guitar player. She played songs from her debut album and a rousing cover of 'Fever.'

Jonny Lang's Set List: One Person At A Time/ Bump In the Road/ Turn Around/ Give Me Up Again/ A Quitter Never Wins/ Red Light/ Don't Stop (For Anything)/ Livin' For the City/ Thankful/ I Am Encore: Breakin' Me/ Lie To Me.