After what seemed like an extended break to change sets it was time for Trace Adkins. His entrance or introduction on the big screens was one of the coolest I've seen in a while. There were all kinds of those warnings like how some material may not be suitable for all viewers which I found amusing and very "Trace."
With the exception of his abbreviated set at the CMA Music Festival last June, I haven't seen Trace in concert for several years. His popularity has grown exponentially since then, and I was amazed at just how popular he was with this crowd. I couldn't help but chuckle at the 50 plus women going absolutely nuts everytime Trace grinned or wiggled his hips, but only because I know that in 25 years that's gonna be me at a Keith Urban concert.
Trace opened with "Songs About Me," and followed it up with several of his hits, old and new, such as "I'm Tryin," "Every Light in the House," and "Swing," which he commented that some people actually believe is about baseball.
Whether it's a natural ability, his confidence, or simply his size, Trace has a commanding stage presence. It's like he dares you to look away because he knows you can't. I wouldn't call myself a huge fan by any means, but I definitely couldn't take my eyes off the big man at center stage. There's just something about him that's comfortable and you almost forget that you're in a room with thousands of people and not hanging out in a tiny bar or a much smaller venue.
Like most U.S. country stars it was apparent how patriotic Mr. Adkins is. He talked about the song "Arlington," and said that even though many of his songs are irreverent, he is very aware of the lyrics of that particular song and it comes right from his heart every time he sings it. He also mentioned that people thought he was trying to make some sort of political statement with the song, but he doesn't give a damn what they think.
Trace sang a few songs from his new album Dangerous Man which I had never heard before. "Fightin Words," "Ain't No Woman Like You," and "Dangerous Man" were all catchy songs which makes me think that the new album might be worth looking into. Generally I buy the albums of any artist that I'm going to see so I can learn the material they might be singing, but with the holidays making funds short... I didn't do that this time. I think I may just grab Dangerous Man the next time I'm out shopping.
Interestingly, last night was the 10th anniversary of the Brooks and Dunn New Year's Eve Bash and it was also the 10 year anniversary of the first time Trace toured with the boys. He has come a long way in 10 years and if 2007 is anything like 2006 for Trace Adkins... look out!
Set List:
- Songs About Me
- This Ain't No Thinkin' Thing
- I'm Tryin
- Swing
- Every Light in the House
- I Left Something Turned On at Home
- Arlington
- Fightin' Words
- Ain't No Woman Like You
- Dangerous Man
- Ladies Love Country Boys
- Rough and Ready
- One Hot Mama
- Honkytonk Badonkadonk
