This was an outstanding show to help kick off a headlining / solo career. Small venue, good lighting, decent sound mix.
Most memorable, though, was the connection with the audience. With family members in attendance, there was a relaxed interplay as the band moved through most of his debut full-length CD, and those songs were well-represented live.
This was my first opportunity to see Nic live, and was impressed with the combination of professionalism and spontaneity -- a tough mix to get right. Musically, the band was airtight, which allowed for considerable leeway in the vocal delivery on songs he's been playing to audiences for the last year.
It is difficult to pigeonhole the band's sound (or the songs), as has been discussed widely in the press. While definitely country-based, there are also elements of urban Atlanta hip-hop, Allman Brothers, and (somehow) large dollops of reggae influence. Those of us who tend to be irritated by most country music can likely find a safe harbor here. The sole cover tune, Free's "All Right Now" was a nice, well-executed surprise, and showed the versatility required to pull off a classic rock standard.
One nice offering was an original (written earlier that day) accompanying himself on ukelele - simple, but even in its basic form it sounded worthy of inclusion on his next release.
It is always a fine tightrope walk trying to appeal to both genders, but Nic manages to be both attractive and non-threatening (it seems part of his personality, without an excess of scripted showbiz schtick).
After the final song, the band brought their acoustic instruments into the middle of the crowd -- (great move) -- and unleashed a show-stopping unplugged Caribbean medley, further connecting with a sing-along "One Love"-fest.
Opener (and childhood friend) Brian Collins delivered a tight, enjoyable set, and joined Nic's band for a couple of tunes, including the acoustic love-fest wrap-up.
Excellent show -- definitely worth checking out. In the meantime, the "Hard Headed" CD gives a good slice of Cowan's style and songwriting skills.
House of Blues Dallas @
- Dallas @
, TX @
- Sun, Mar 18, 2012 @
Favorite moment: Watching the guys watching the girls watching Nic. @
Setlist: (not in order) Cut it Loose, Get Me Going, Hardheaded, Sun Dress, Reno, Money Don't Make You Happy, Wrong Side, I Won't Let Go, All Right Now, One Love Medley @
Opening act(s): Brian Collins @