Keith Urban and Carrie Underwood - February 1, 2008

In reviewing the second night of the new Keith Urban/Carrie Underwood tour at Mohegan Sun, you would have to say the music was fantastic. But really, that goes without saying when Urban is involved. So lets instead look at showmanship -  these two have it all going for them. 

Opening act, Underwood, did an hour’s worth of rocking songs, had four superfluous costume changes and stomped from one end of the stage to the other, exhorting the audience.  The audience was friendly, but it took the finale, “Before He Cheats” to bring her fans to their feet. 

Not so with Urban. His fans were already standing and screaming as Urban appeared before a huge colorful screen and raced down a steep ramp to opener “Once in a Lifetime.”  For the next two hours, no one returned to their seats as Urban belted out song after song, including old hits like “Somebody Like You” and almost every track from the “Love, Pain” CD.  

Urban, clearly loving the adulation and enjoying himself, ripped through guitar riffs showing that he is one of country’s (or rock for that matter) best guitarists. Even during quiet songs like hits “Stupid Boy” or “Making Memories,” he showed his musical talents and his amazing voice.  Urban is also backed by one of country’s best bands – many of them top studio musicians that Urban lured back out on the road. 

Urban has designed a set with his fans in mind. The long stage almost completely bi-sects the arena floor and ends in a small round stage set in front of the back of the auditorium – insuring great views for everyone as he struts the catwalk and then performs three numbers with the band on the round stage. All of it is captured by overhead cameras and roving cameramen who send larger than life images across the video backdrop. 
 

Urban also has an eye out for the younger fans. At one point, he jumped off the stage and made his way into the stands. He stood playing the end of “You Look Good in My Shirt” for a young boy and then unstrapped his guitar, signed it and handed it to the stunned kid.

Later, he spotted another young kid having trouble seeing over the towering adults. He came down the catwalk, stopped next to the boy’s row, knealt down and sang, smiling, at the young fan. They the slapped hands and Urban rose and returned to the stage (nearby female adults were having heart attacks being that close to the star!). 

Urban brought back Underwood for a forgettable duet (and of course she had another clothes change). He also invited a local marching drum group to play backup for “I Told You So” and faded into the background to allow the young drummers to bask in the audience applause. 

Urban has been touring for many years and has grown and improved dramatically since he first opened for Brooks and Dunn. Traveling with buddy Kenny Chesney taught him to enjoy himself and connect with his audience. It’s now clear that the student has surpassed the teacher in presenting an unforgettable concert party! See it in an arena near you.