Taking the stage shortly after the amazing performance of Phil Vassar (photos), Sugarland snuck up on the main stage of Country USA for a minimalistic opening with Jennifer Nettles singing and banging on a drum, backed by guitarist Kristian Bush for “Wide Open.” It was a nice deviation from the normal idea of breaking out with a loud and fast paced song for an opener. This one really showcased Jennifer Nettles clean and very strong vocals.

I was a bit disappointed at the crowd in the first ten rows of the VIP section for Sugarland’s set. They really weren’t getting into the performance and sat down a lot of the time, which was a bit odd as these were the same people dancing around and having a great time with Phil Vassar.

The Jennifer Nettles – Kristian Bush duo is a fantastic site to see. They really know how to work with each other on stage and put on a great show as well. The rest of their band kind of hung out in the back of the stage, but at times came out next to Jennifer and Kristin.

I thought their song selection was great, featuring a good amount of their early music and some impressive new tunes that show the positive direction Sugarland is headed in.

A few songs into the show, Jennifer Nettles took a break and asked Oshkosh, “do you like surprises?!” They responded very loudly and positively, sparking Jennifer Nettles and guitarist Kristian Bush to sign a black acoustic guitar, walk out into the crowd and give it to a deserving young boy.

The remainder of the show was a lot of fun and loaded with energy. It’s never a dull moment with a lot of these country bands. They really know how to have a great time, especially with an entire festival park staring back at them, dancing around and having a great time.

Sugarland Setlist: Wide Open – Stuck Like Glue – Settlin’ – Everyday America – It Happens – Tonight – Guitar Giveaway – Want To – Already Gone – Incredible Machine – Stay – Love – Baby Girl – All I Want To Do – Find The Beat Again – Something More