Updated Jun 3, 2009 - 7:01 pm
Tyler Hilton shines with potential
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MyNorthwest.com
"I'm glad to see so many girls out here," Tyler Hilton said to his estrogen-heavy audience at the Showbox Sodo on Tuesday night. He then quipped to the few males in the crowd, "And guys? You're some sly sons-a-bitches. If I weren't up here, I'd be at a Tyler Hilton show too."
If you've never heard of Tyler Hilton before, chances are a younger sister, niece or friend will at least be able to recognize him. Usually known for his acting these days, Hilton played the endearingly despicable Chris Keller on One Tree Hill and also stars as the infamous Drew of Taylor Swift's "Teardrops on My Guitar" music video.
Musically, Hilton released his debut album in 2004. Cashing in on the singer/songwriter trend, his music is in much the same vein as John Mayer's. The acoustic guitar driven CD of folksy pop music was a bit mediocre, overshadowed by the likes of Mayer and Jason Mraz. Nonetheless, with his low gravelly voice and charming good looks, Hilton has managed to gain a niche of young female fans (myself included).
While this description might make you skeptical, I can assure you that his performance was fun and entertaining. Featuring a varied set list, Hilton played new tunes and older material from the aforementioned mediocre album. Songs ranged from the mournful, "Girl That Got Away" to the optimistic, "Tore the Line". But Hilton was especially impressive when he delved beyond the usual acoustic fodder. "Don't Forget All Your Clothes" was surprisingly soulful and bluesy, causing the entire venue to fall silent. Even the screaming girl behind me grew quiet with awe. In a nod to his years in Nashville, Hilton covered the Elvis song, "That's All Right." The rendition was a true standout with Hilton giving the song an even more countrified kick.
As a performer Hilton is also conversational and wry. Between songs, he shared stories of lyrical inspirations, twitter and an oddly named street in Boise called "Ustick". His backing band shined with musical chemistry and light-hearted bantering on the side. Aided by the smaller venue, the show feels less like a concert and more like hanging out with a friend. Well, a friend that happens to have a guitar and mic. And judging by the head bobs, toe taps and squeals the crowd ate it all up.
Overall, it was a night of fun catchy music. Tyler Hilton caters well to his teenage audience, playing perfectly accessible pop songs and laying down heaps of swaggering charm in between. But it's when he flirted with different musical genres that he truly shined. His forays into blues and country have me eagerly anticipating his new album.
