Counting Crows at Michigan Lottery Amphitheater

On a perfect summer night at the Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre, Counting Crows delivered the kind of show that reminded fans why they've stuck around for over three decades. With The Gaslight Anthem opening, the evening kicked off with a dose of gritty rock energy that had the crowd fired up before frontman Adam Duritz and company took the stage. From the first notes of “Spaceman” to the encore closer “Holiday in Spain,” the band pulled from every era of their career, blending old favorites with fresh material that held its own.

Duritz was in top form his voice as distinct and emotional as ever. He moved effortlessly from moody, slow-burning ballads like “Colorblind” to the anthemic punch of “Mr. Jones,” which had the entire amphitheater singing along. A stripped-back cover of the Grateful Dead’s “Friend of the Devil” gave the set a rootsy detour, while newer tracks like “With Love, From A–Z” and “Butterfly in Reverse” (making its tour debut) showed the band is still evolving, not just coasting on nostalgia. Every song felt intentional, delivered with a kind of intimacy that made even the biggest moments feel personal.

The atmosphere at Freedom Hill matched the music laid back but deeply connected. The lawn crowd swayed under the stars, while fans closer to the stage danced, sang, and shared knowing looks when the opening chords of beloved songs rang out. Counting Crows didn’t just play a concert they told stories, pulled heartstrings, and reminded everyone there of the beauty in a song you’ve carried with you for years. It was one of those nights you don’t forget.