Uncle Kracker

On his sophomore effort, Uncle Kracker (born Matthew Shafer) steps out from behind Kid Rock's turntable to prove he's a viable artist on his own. The album No Stranger to Shame is a collection of willowy jangle rock with Motown and rap influences thrown in. It kicks off with the Motown feel of "I Do" and continues through a journey of country on "Letter to My Daughters" and funky rap on "Keep It Comin'." No Stranger to Shame is vastly different from his rap-riddled debut, Double Wide. His full-time employer, Kid Rock, is only credited as executive producer, unlike Double Wide, on which the rap-rocker made multiple appearances. Uncle Kracker proves he can sing throughout No Stranger to Shame. His takes on "Drift Away," a duet with Dobie Gray, and "Baby Don't Cry" showcase Uncle Kracker's blues sensibility. No Stranger to Shame should keep radio busy for quite some time -- most of the songs remain in the listener's mind long after the CD ends. [The Japanese edition includes two bonus tracks, the hit "Follow Me" and "To Think I Used to Love You."] ~ Christina Fuoco, All Music Guide