Friday night, and guess who was playing over at Michiels in Menasha? None other than Zakk Abitz! If you know anything about the local music scene, you've probably heard of him as the lead vocalist and guitarist of Bad Habitz. Zakk is a powerhouse performer, and his all-acoustic shows are a must-see. This isn’t your typical unplugged set either—every song is rearranged for an acoustic performance, and the energy is just as electric as his full-band gigs.

What sets Zakk apart? His playlist spans five decades, pulling in a mix of songs you wouldn’t catch at a Bad Habitz show, giving each acoustic performance a fresh and unique flavor. Singer, guitarist, songwriter, clinician, teacher—Zakk Abitz does it all, and he does it with a level of passion and talent that keeps you coming back for more. I remember seeing him for the first time years ago with Bad Habitz, and his solo acoustic show delivers that same excitement.

Michiels has changed things up a bit since the last time I was there. The bar now sports a small stage set up right behind their signature horseshoe-shaped bar, which makes for a cozy and intimate setting. The funny part? While I was shooting video and taking photos, the bartenders were doing their absolute best to avoid the camera—seriously sweet of them, but their excellent service didn’t go unnoticed! It was impressive how they managed to keep things running smoothly, all while trying to stay out of the spotlight.

If you’re looking for a great night out, Michiels has you covered. Grab some food, a drink or two, and enjoy live music from the comfort of your barstool. There's something special about watching a performance with the artist right behind the bar, making the whole night feel personal and connected. Between Zakk’s incredible acoustic set and the inviting atmosphere, it was a fantastic Friday night.

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