Hear Nebraska Fundraiser Features Matthew Sweet & The So-So Sailors Tonight

Omaha-based nonprofit Hear Nebraska announces "Hear Hear," an inaugural fundraising event featuring an intimate performance by legendary musician Matthew Sweet, tonight, March 28 at the Holland Performing Arts Center's 1200 Club.

Hear Nebraska executive director Andrew Norman says the organization plans to make the concert an annual event. "We hope to make Hear Hear a can't-miss event for anyone interested in supporting Nebraska's music community, fostering original art and experiencing a one-of-a-kind show featuring world-class talent," Norman says. "It's a great opportunity to learn more about Hear Nebraska, and to celebrate this uniquely cool culture that thrives in the state."

Sweet, born and raised in Nebraska, rose to national prominence in the early '90s with his album Girlfriend. The title track from the album reached the number 10 spot on Billboard charts. The current Omaha resident has since released 10 studio albums. His latest release, 2011's Modern Art, met critical acclaim as a carefully-crafted pop record. Sweet has a new record on the way. He will perform with a full band.

Omaha's The So-So Sailors will open for Sweet. With a clear appreciation for '60s lounge and R&B aesthetics, the band's piano-rock ballads are an astute pair with 1200 Club's jazz-club atmosphere.

Hear Nebraska is a non-profit dedicated to supporting and promoting Nebraska music through its journalism-based website, multiple concert series and other programming. Hear Nebraska's vision is to make the state an internationally known cultural destination.

The 1200 Club in Omaha's Holland Performing Arts Center offers a unique atmosphere to see musicians who generally play crowded concert halls. In 2013, Hear Nebraska hosted its Live at 1200 Club with NET there, featuring Kill County, Digital Leather and Big Harp. The result was a personal show for audience and performer alike, stripped of environmental distractions often present at rock shows.

"The show was so personal and intimate. And the room just sounds beautiful," Norman says. "We knew we wanted to do something there again. We're extremely excited to be able to present one of Nebraska's - and the country's - most-beloved pop musician in that space."

The fundraiser will include a silent auction featuring prints of some of Hear Nebraska contributors' best concert photography. VIP tickets include reserved seating, a meet-and-greet and photo with Sweet and a limited-edition, screen-printed poster from the event signed by Sweet himself. All proceeds benefit Hear Nebraska.

Tickets are limited, and available now at Ticket Omaha, $100 for VIP and $45 for general admission. Doors open at 7 p.m., the show begins at 8.