Stir Cove has had numerous shows this season that are near capacity or sold out; but there is nothing quite like the crowds that fill the amphitheater for the country music shows. It is as exhilarating as the music itself.  The audience is as loud and proud as they are for any other genre, but this group comes together differently than others, and it’s not easy to explain – you just have to be there to feel it.  Not only does every lady in the house know the words to the songs – the guys do as well, and they are straining and singing right along with every note. This gathering dresses appropriately – ladies in cutoffs, bejeweled jeans, jean skirts or cute little sun dresses with boots to match every style; and the guys – well if it isn’t a Stetson, it’s a most appropriate ball cap to go with their plaid shirt and jeans.  The beer goes down easy and often – but everyone is genuine, straightforward and just plain pleased.

There is a reason Eric Church is back for the third straight year in a row – he knows it and so does Stir.  The man puts on a show that is packed with fun, energy, talent and of course great music.  Church is so appreciative of the way he is treated at this Council Bluffs venue, that he brought eight videographers with him Thursday night to film an exclusive video – yeah, right here on our turf.  He repeatedly thanked both the management and the multitudes at Stir, stating that they are a big reason why he has achieved much of his success.

Church hails out of Granite Falls, North Carolina, and has seen a lot of victory in a short amount of time.  While he has only released 3 studio albums, he has cruised onto the charts with gusto.  His latest release entitled Chief debuted at number one on both the Billboard 200 and Top Country Albums.  In 2011, the Academy of Country Music Awards honored him as the Top New Solo Vocalist.  Church is humble and gracious however, and never forgets to thank his fans and express his appreciation for what they give to him.

There was one tune Thursday night that kind of hit a chord in me – no pun intended.  It’s called “These Boots” and while Church sings from his heart, his fans proudly remove one of their own boots and raise it high while they sing along. A glance at the lyrics just enhanced the poignancy of the performance.

Church’s show is intense and fearless.  He gives and he gets.  It is a brilliant blend of love and talent - and a night to remember.  It’s no wonder the man’s show is sold out again Friday night, and I can’t wait to be in the house.  Yes – my boots are polished and my jeans ready to go.

I really need to talk a bit about Frankie Ballard, who opened the show for Eric.  I don’t always get the chance to see the openers, but this is one I am truly glad I could see.  Ballard is very new to the world of country music, having debuted in 2008 after winning the Next Big Star competition sponsored by Kenny Chesney.  Ballard released his first album in May of this year and has been the opening act for Kenny Chesney as well as Church.  He has a great voice, a solid band and in my opinion – some staying power.  Course, when you are lucky enough to have guys like Church and Chesney on your side ……hmmmm, maybe he should change his name to “Challard” – that consonant combo seems to work.