FIRST IMPRESSION - TAYLOR HICKS AT WORKPLAY

FIRST IMPRESSION - TAYLOR HICKS AT WORKPLAY

By Mary Colurso -- The Birmingham News


September 26, 2009, 1:59AM

Over time, it's become clear to me: Taylor Hicks is the most dynamic, interesting and consistently entertaining member of Birmingham's "American Idol" trio.

Perhaps it's unfair to lump Hicks, 32, into a category with Ruben Studdard and Bo Bice, because their music styles are so different -- soul-pop, R&B and Southern rock, respectively.

But all three are local guys who made their fame on the same TV reality series, and their successes happened within a span of just four years. I can't help but compare and contrast them, and frankly, Hicks always stands out.

When the Gray Haired Guy returns for a concert here, as he did Friday night at the WorkPlay theater, it's always a professional, high-energy show. Hicks works hard as a singer-instrumentalist (guitar and harmonica) and the set never feels amateurish or slapdash.

If anything, Hicks' 11 p.m. performance at WorkPlay proved that he's gained in confidence and stage stature in the years following his 2006 "Idol" win.

Sure, Hicks seemed comfy before -- doing those goofy dances and connecting with the crowd -- but he's completely feeling his powers now, performing songs such as "The Deal," "The Runaround," "The Distance," "Nineteen" and "What's Right Is Right."

His voice sounded pretty darn good, too, powering through some numbers and mellowing out in others.

Is Hicks the most sublime music artist who ever lived? Of course not; he'd be the first to admit it. Hicks simply knows his strengths, downplays his weaknesses and makes the most of what he's got.

Case in point: Hicks is pulling double-duty here, playing late-night sets at WorkPlay Friday and Saturday after appearing in the national tour of "Grease" at the BJCC Concert Hall. Talk about a can-do attitude.

For a full review, look later on al.com or see Sunday's edition of The Birmingham News.

http://blog.al.com/mcolurso/2009/09/first_...ylor_hicks.html

It is so great when Taylor gets good reviews. If only the general American public would wake up and see what a great talent he is.

It's always nice to hear or read positive things about our Taylor.

I totally agree with you 1000% CC. The general American public needs to wake up and listen to the music.