Nettles Diversifies as Sugarland Sweetens The Mood in Charleston

Sugarland has earned its keep in country music with catchy melodies, commercial song structures and some simple old-fashioned charm. All of those qualities were on full display during their show last Thursday at Family Circle Magazine Stadium in Charleston, SC.

For the most part, everything was on par. With an impressive slew of familiar hits for a relatively new duo, the set list was strong. “Settlin’,” “It Happens,” and “Want To” were right on, and Jennifer Nettles showed no sign of being rusty after a week of doctor-mandated vocal rest. Throw in the three best album cuts from their latest CD Love On The Inside, including a stripped down version of “Genevieve” and it’s hard to go wrong.

Also, it was refreshing to see Nettles’ musical prowess. She picked up the guitar during “Joey,” and took a seat at the piano a few other times in the show. While Kristian Bush is often featured as the instrumental half of the twosome, his mandolin strumming was no more impressive than Nettles’ ability.

But while most of the set was standard fare, Sugarland did take a few chances–some that were fun, and some that were puzzling. On the positive side was a good-natured medley of Madonna’s “Holiday,” The Emotions’ “Best of My Love”, and The Flight of the Conchords’ “Sugalumps.” No, it wasn’t country, but it’s hard not to like Nettles’ interpretations of different genres–at least in 30 second bites.

The worst offense, though, came during the encore. After “Baby Girl” and “So Long,” a new song, Nettles flung on a big, curly blonde wig to power through “Love Shack.” Complete with giant disco ball, the performance marked an odd end to an otherwise enjoyable night of music. Cheap tricks and gimmicks might work for lesser talented acts–but Sugarland shouldn’t have to go there.

Billy Currington opened the show, but proved to be nothing more than a lady pleaser. “Baby,” “Lover,” and “Turn Me On” seemed to be the phrases of the night. While “Must Be Doin’ Something Right” and “Don’t” brought upon estrogen-driven ovations, numbers like “Good Directions” and “People Are Crazy” shined among the fodder.