Song of the Day 11/5: Counting Crows, “Omaha”
The odds are against it, but thanks to the quirks of the Electoral College, if all the toss-up states break just the right way, the presidential race could come down to Nebraska’s 2nd District – Omaha and its suburbs.
Adam Duritz thought it represented middle America on “August and Everything After,” the band’s 7-million-selling debut album from 1993. Weeks before “Mr. Jones” made Counting Crows an overnight sensation, WXPN was playing this Americana-flavored album cut for its Adult Aternative audience. “Omaha” was eventually released as a single but didn’t chart.
The tune sounded quite different before producer T Bone Burnett got his hands on it. Duritz’ previous band, the Himalayans, had a more rock-oriented sound than the Crows, and so did the demo of “Omaha,” released with the deluxe edition of the album.
Great song. This band should get more respect. I’m gonna play more of their songs right now.
If I were to make a list of the Top 10 bands from the ’90s I’m pretty sure Counting Crows would be on it. Maybe I’ll do that just for my own amusement. Can’t resist a list.