With plenty of sexy swagger, a sense of comedy that was surprising and a flair for guitar solos, Keith Urban performed to an adoring Brisbane crowd on Tuesday night.
An underrated star in his home country, Urban is a huge celebrity overseas, selling out enormous venues and commanding huge crowds wherever he goes. And you can understand why after attending his show – he was an effortless and energetic performer, skilled as a musician and with a presence on stage that was mesmerising.
Dressed in a tight grey tee and skinny black jeans, with an armful of artistic tatts and holding a beauty of a black guitar, Urban just looked good. He also sounded really, really good. Backed by a bunch of hipster cowboys (who play with enthusiasm and dance between the mikes on stage), his whole set-up is appealing to the eye. An industrial stage design adds to the modern feel, and for most of the performance Keith and his musicians are bathed in soft green or gold light.
The set list was awash with Urban classics from his extensive collection of tunes. Fans sang along to 'Long Hot Summer', 'Kiss a Girl', 'Better Life', 'Somebody Like You', 'Somewhere In My Car', 'Shame', 'Little Bit of Everything', 'Cop Car', 'Good Thing' and 'Even The Stars Fall 4U'.
Standout moments include when he invited eight-year-old Lauren on to the stage after she called out asking for a selfie with the singer. Here Urban demonstrated his family man side, joking around with Lauren and asking the crowd to squeeze in closer to get a better shot. He also invited Brooeke Schubert, a pub singer from Moranbah pub, to sing a duet with him. Urban discovered Schubert after seeing her sing his songs on YouTube and her voice blew everyone away. The husband of Nicole Kidman, also performed some of his set up in the back, set high in the stands among the crowd. And to top it off, he then generously gave away his guitar to a girl in the crowd.
His popularity can be attributed to an intoxicating combination of effortless confidence, catchy lyrics, big bold guitar riffs and an infectious enthusiasm. The toned body and sweet smile definitely don't hurt either. And seriously, this was a concert that was more cool rock than country crooning, and if Australia doesn't start backing this talented muso, his appearances will be few and far between. Don't miss him next time.
Keith Urban Tour Dates
June 21, 22 - Allphones Arena (Sydney)June 25, 26 - Rod Laver Arena (Melbourne)
June 27 - Collins Park (Narrabri)
June 29 - Perth Arena (Perth)
