shot by: etheralvisions111
The Criticals Light Up the Midwest with Raw Energy and Indie Swagger
By: Bella Jane
The Criticals, Nashville’s rising indie rock band known for their gritty guitar riffs and infectious stage presence, brought the heat to the Midwest with their performance in Omaha, Nebraska. Delivering high-octane sets packed with fan favorites and fresh cuts, the band proved once again why they’re one of the most exciting acts on the modern rock scene.
Omaha, NE – The Waiting Room Lounge (April 10, 2025)
In Omaha, The Criticals transformed The Reverb Lounge into a sweaty, electric frenzy. From the opening notes of “The Truth,” the crowd was locked in. Frontman Parker Forbes oozed charisma, leaping around the stage with effortless cool while lead guitarist Cole Shugart shredded solos with precision and flair. Highlights included the punchy “Absinthe” and a seductive performance of “Danish Eyes”.
What stood out most was the band’s tight musicianship—despite the rawness of their aesthetic, every transition and tempo shift felt intentional and sharp. The encore, a euphoric rendition of “Belmont,” left the crowd buzzing long after the lights came up.
Milwaukee, WI – Cactus Club (April 13, 2025)
If Omaha was a punk-fueled explosion, Milwaukee was more of a sonic celebration. The Criticals leaned into their groove-heavy side at Cactus Club, layering fuzzed-out bass lines and lo-fi synth textures into an already hypnotic set. Forbes’ vocals carried more grit than polish, perfectly suited to the dim, vibey venue and the moody lighting that pulsed with every beat.
The standout moment came midway through the show when the band launched into a new unreleased track. The audience—already dancing and swaying—stood still for a beat, then collectively leaned into the rhythm, hypnotized by the band’s evolving sound. It was a bold move that paid off, signaling a more experimental direction without sacrificing their signature edge.
Final Thoughts
The Criticals’ Midwest run was more than just a series of shows—it was a statement. Their ability to connect with crowds in intimate venues, while experimenting with their sonic palette, speaks to a band that’s both confident in their identity and eager to evolve. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer, catching The Criticals live is an experience that buzzes in your bones long after the last chord fades
