Matt Whipkey to take stage at Sidney Fine Arts Center

Matt Whipkey is a critically acclaimed singer songwriter, guitarist and bandleader from Omaha. He is also the recipient of the Omaha Arts and Entertainment Awards for artists and album of the year in 2013 and will be performing at the Sidney Fine Arts Center on Saturday.

His new album "Underwater," tells the stories of the people who have come in and out of his life during his early 30s. He sings about how these people live among us, challenge us, elate us and let us down in our daily lives, memories and dreams. Whipkey explores topics like lost love, friendships, death and indulgence.

Omaha music critic Tim McMahan said of Whipkey: "He's something of a throwback to a simpler time, before the advent of slumped-shouldered, indifferent indie hip-sters who go out of their way to ignore the audience with dollops of you're-lucky-we're-even-performing contempt. Whipkey, on the other hand, is the ultimate stage performer, not satisfied if even one crowd members isn't 'into it,' whether it's on a tiny lounge stage or at a mammoth amphitheater. Whipkey was born for the arena."

Whipkey used Kickstarter to successfully fund his third full-length album that was released on February 17. The 10-track album includes music performed by his bandmates, Scott "Zip" Zipperman, Robert Carrig, Korey Anderson and Travis Sing as well as collaborations with Omaha musician and producer, J. Scott Gaeta.

Whipkey, who originally studied journalism, began recording music in 2000 and said he is inspired by many different musical groups and types of music.

"I am just very thankful to be able to continue to put out albums that people enjoy," Whipkey said."

"I don't want to be limited to one certain genre," Whipkey said. "I've been influenced by a lot of people like Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, The Clash, Smokey Robinson and just mo-town in general."

According to Whipkey he hasn't played a show in western Nebraska and is excited about playing a more intimate show at the Sidney Fine Arts Center.

According to the SFAC Director Jess Nelson, Whipkey's performance will hopefully encourage and build the community's arts scene.

"I like his sound, and he's coming off an amazing year in the flourishing Omaha music scene," Nelson said. "We have a room that is full of character and possibilities, we're proud to have Matt kick things off for us. I believe he will appeal to younger audiences, but also fans of Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello and even some roots music. He's a thrilling songwriter."

"I'm really excited to play a show in a smaller community. I've never performed anywhere quite like the Sidney Fine Arts Center," Whipkey said. "It doesn't matter if the venue is smaller, we still give 110 percent regardless."

Whipkey said one of his greatest accomplishments pursuing music so far has been being able to be creative and continue on his musical journey.

" 'Underwater' just came out and I really want to push that hard and get it into as many people's hands as possible." Whipkey said. "I hope to continue to stay focused and creative."