Unbridled voice carries McBride

Leah Robinson

Monday, Sept. 8, 2003 | 8:20 a.m.

Few in country music today, male or female, possess such a genuine instrument. Thankfully, she's smart enough to keep the spotlight right there, showcasing her golden-throated greatness at every turn.

Flanked by a silvery backdrop of half moons, stars and big paper lanterns, McBride's voice seemed to be singing her, at times. Her delivery could quickly go from warm and lilting on such ballads as "Valentine" to powerfully commanding when she belted her megahit, "Independence Day."

All night McBride used her most trusted tools -- high notes and high emotion -- to create the show's most poignant moments. Among them, the fan favorite "Concrete Angel," a song about a forgotten little girl killed by her abusive mother.

And since we had the hankies out anyway, the crowd was treated to another tear-jerker, "In My Daughter's Eyes," a cut from McBride's new album set for release Sept. 30. Audience response was positive, suggesting a potential hit.

But one has to wonder why, with all her industry awards and record sales, only 3,200 fans were in attendance. McBride's sound is slick and polished enough for modern country, but her trademark dedication to family and goodness make her more than mere product.

And unlike many recent country concerts in Las Vegas, McBride's was not sponsored by a beer company, nor did she pander patriotism as if it were the soup du jour. Instead she brought a voice that moves people, transporting and entertaining them through the sheer joy of performing.

"I am having the time of my life," she remarked following a long standing ovation for the song "Broken Wing." "I don't ever take it for granted that I am living out my dream every day."

Among the other highlights of the show was McBride's cover of Jeannie C. Riley's 1968 hit, "Harper Valley PTA." Besides the fact that the song makes no one cry (unless you're a little weird), it's a fun song and a perfect fit for McBride's voice.

Originally from Kansas, McBride's mournful version of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," peeled the layers of the well-worn song, while adding unique touches such as the steel guitar.

The only distraction from McBride's performance was the way she looked. Appearing very slim (almost too slim), she sported black silk cargo-style capri pants encrusted with rhinestones and a few around-one-hip silver chains.

She seemed to be going for a Pat Benatar 1980s' revival look with her mesh top and choppy short hair, but it was the 4-inch silver heels she liked best.

"I call these my Dolly Parton shoes," she said. "It's the only thing I've got that looks like Dolly Parton's, but a girl can't have everything, right?"

Right. Including a satisfying opening act. Although newcomer Jamie O'Neal has a wonderful, strong voice, she's no Martina.

A better choice would have been an act that complements, not mimics, the headliner's style.