Confident Urban dazzles EnergySolutions Arena

KEITH URBAN, LITTLE BIG TOWN, EnergySolutions Arena, Sept. 9

Keith Urban didn't have an elaborate stage. There weren't a lot of pyrotechnics and flashy gimmicks, either.

And the thing is, he didn't need it.

During his one-night performance at EnergySolutions Arena on Wednesday, Urban gave Utah clear proof as to his skills as a performer and musician. The minute he walked onto the stage, he was energetic, confident and playing to his audience.

Highlights included his guitar playing, and also the two times he made his way through the audience to different platforms located at the rear and side of the arena.

Unlike a lot of country musicians, Urban is highly skilled on the guitar. He actually began playing at age 6, and was recognized in Nashville as a guitarist before he made his name as a singer.

Urban took the time on songs to showcase that talent, pausing midway in some of his songs to just jam. He opened with "Hit the Ground Runnin'" and then quickly moved into renditions of "Days Go By" and "Stupid Boy."

The audience was clearly enthralled. Women screamed. People held up signs. And Urban soaked it up with his broad smile.

You could tell he was enjoying the night.

"I've learned to get out of the way of the process more and just let it flow," Urban said in an earlier interview with the Deseret News. "There is no doubt this has been the best tour for me because I have been able to be part of the night, but not have it be about me."

Other songs included as part of his two-hour set were "Once in a Lifetime," which Urban sang from a stage at the back of the arena, "Till Summer Comes Around," and the hit single, "Sweet Thing" from his new album, "Defying Gravity."

Midway through the show, Urban took the time to introduce each member of his five-person band. Like Urban, most had a resume that includes the ability to play multiple guitars.

Each band member could also sing and was given the chance for a brief solo in front of the crowd. Urban even had his road crew come on stage for a brief introduction.

Even during those moments when he wasn't singing, there was an obvious energy in the building. The group, Little Big Town, helped start things off with a 45-minute set of songs including "Boondocks" and "I'm With the Band."

The group has been together since 1998 and is recognized for its strong four-part harmonies and cohesive dynamic. They are one of multiple hit-making groups that have opened for Urban this year, including the award-winning duo, Sugarland.

It's easy to see why Urban has attracted such high-quality openers. The man is talented, but also a genuine musician who seems to love what he is doing.

"Did we have a good time tonight, Salt Lake City?" Urban asked toward the end of his show.

From the response of the audience, it seemed the answer was a resounding, "Yes."

e-mail: nwarburton@desnews.com