I’ve never been a big fan of metal music. It is so loud and I am rarely able to understand what is being sung as it is being screamed, full volume into a microphone. More often than not, metal music gives me a headache. I like music that I can sing along with and that makes me bob my head. Head banging just isn’t in my repertoire.

About a year ago, I started running across pictures of a local band online. Dirtfedd was playing rock festivals all over the country and their fan base was growing. Any time it was announced that Dirtfedd was doing a show, a big name was connected to the venue. After a friend of mine saw them open for Gwar, I took notice. With a little digging, I found out that their album, The American Nightmare, has been produced by Shawn Crahan of Slipknot and they have been perfecting their sound together for about eight years. I found a video of theirs on YouTube and was stunned. The collaboration was amazing. These six boys from Lincoln, Nebraska have managed to parlay a love of metal with their musical talents to form a musical group to be envied. After downloading their album on iTunes, seeing them live became necessary.

I took the opportunity to watch Dirtfedd perform at The Waiting Room in Omaha with 2 Cents and Shadows Fall on February 15th. The energy was incredible. Most rock bands that are well known in their areas can be unfocused or even unprofessional regarding their art but Dirtfedd got up on that stage and mesmerized the crowd. I found myself pulled to the front with a surge of people. There was the typical mosh pit but most in attendance couldn’t take their eyes off of the performance. Dustin, the lead singer, manages to cross between screaming and singing with ease. He is a consummate entertainer who draws the audience in with his antics and energy.

I could tell from the first note that Dustin, Scott (bassist), Travis (keys), Brock (drummer), Eric, and Brian (guitar players) put every ounce of energy they had into their music. The songs were catchy and I was able to sing along. When Dirtfedd played their most popular song, Shotgun Romance, the crowd went wild. Most people were jumping in rhythm to the bass with hands in the air.

Following Dirtfedd’s performance, the band stuck around for the rest of the show to mingle with the crowd. They talked with every fan, signed autographs, and shook hands with anyone who asked. I didn’t find a single one as the stereotypical aloof rockers. Dirtfedd, considering the music they play, were friendly and smiling, willing to talk about their music and showing nothing but appreciation for the support of their fans.

Dirtfedd has worked hard to build a reputation in Nebraska as a band that can warm any stage for the big name coming behind them. That word of mouth is slowly starting to spread as are the locations of their venues. Should you get a chance to Dirtfedd live; take the opportunity. These guys are passionate about their music, their band, and pleasing the crowd. You may not become a fan of metal but you will certainly become a fan of theirs.