Concerts, News

Dierks Bentley proves that every mile is a memory

Dierks Bentley – by Jessica Blankenship

Dierks Bentley headlined the Country Concert Series at the Horseshoe Casino in Elizabeth, Indiana to an enthusiastic crowd on Sunday night.  Country music fans were entertained by Bentley’s stage presence as he sang hit songs from all of his albums.

Midway through the one and half hour set, Bentley slowed things down by performing acoustically.  The acoustic selections include “My Last Name”, dedicated to those serving in the military, and “Long Trip Alone.”  He included the bluegrass classic “8 More Miles” to pay homage of Louisville, Kentucky, which was just across the river.  Bentley performed his newest single “I Wanna Make You Close Your Eyes” to the delight of his female fans.

Dierks ventured out into the crowd on several occasions to give fans an up-close experience.  Whether it was in the crowd, or up on stage, Dierks proved that his musical talents and showmanship are why he is well liked among fans and fellow Grand Ole Opry members.

The show concluded with the song that help jump start his career, “What Was I Thinking”.  For the encore, he spoke highly of Kentucky native, Keith Whitley ,and how he was influenced by his talents.  He then sang three of his musical hero’s songs, “Family Tradition” by Hank Williams, Jr., “Ain’t Living Long Like This” by Waylon Jennings, and “Folsom Prison Blues” by Johnny Cash.

Opening for Dierks Bentley was Columbia Nashville recording artist, Josh Thompson.  Filling the thirty minutes full of honky tonk originals, as well as a few covers, Thompson proved that he was the perfect fit to get the party started for the crowd.  His current song, “Beer on the Table”,  is one to be on the lookout for on country radio with its down-home hard working theme.