You could certainly say that Carrie Underwood’s stage is a reflection of her fame.
The reigning Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year made a stop at the Value City Arena Tuesday night as a part of her 45-city tour for her most recent album, “Play On.”
During the nearly two-hour long show, Underwood displayed the voice that has won her many country music awards. Her stage, which was laden with several special effects, seemed to be fighting for the crowd’s attention, however.
Complete with several display screens, fog machines and a platform that seemed to move in more directions than Willy Wonka’s elevator, the high-tech stage put on a show of its own. During Underwood’s cover of John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” a blue pick-up truck emerged and carried the singer high above the crowd.
“It’s the only way to travel, ladies and gentleman,” Underwood said, looking down into a field of flashing cameras.
Underwood contributed to the action-packed night with a total of eight wardrobe changes. In between every song, Underwood seemed to lose a piece of clothing that would change the look of her outfit. All the while, the singer ran around in heels that would cause a woman’s feet to hurt after just one glance — let alone Underwood’s zigzagging across the stage all night.
The country crooner showed the crowd that her list of talents doesn’t end with singing. During the twenty-song set list, she strummed a guitar during “Some Hearts,” and played a glittering-white piano during “Mama’s Song.”
Although the stage and props were entertaining, they were more suited for a lip-syncing pop-star singer who’s in desperate need of a crutch. For a singer that has a voice as big and impressive as Underwood’s, it’s over-the-top. She just didn’t need all the extras; her voice was enough.
Underwood, 27, shined the most when the stage settled down and the visuals relaxed. When all attention was focused on her, the crowd could appreciate the big voice this woman possesses.
All eyes were focused on Underwood when she performed “Jesus Take the Wheel” and her current single, “Temporary Home.” Perhaps the audience was in awe, because the crowd, who sang along with Underwood most of the night, fell quiet during these more personal songs. Most likely, the crowd just couldn’t produce the high notes Underwood is capable of.
The Oklahoma native brought both of her opening acts back on stage during the course of the night. Sons of Sylvia, a group that sounded closer to rock than country, came out to perform “What Can I Say,” a song the group also assisted Underwood with on the studio recording. Craig Morgan, the second opening act, came out and performed an impressive cover of Alan Jackson’s “Don’t Rock the Jukebox” with Underwood.
The most impressive duet of the night was with a singer that wasn’t even present, however. Randy Travis made a guest appearance on the display screens and a recording provided all the backing Underwood needed to make Travis’ original song, “I Told You So,” one of the best performances of the night.
