Reviews: OneRepublic, James Taylor, Bon Jovi, Ariana Grande, Sting

Today’s collection of colorful critiques includes an appraisal of OneRepublic performing in Beverly Hills; James Taylor in Adelaide; Bon Jovi in Greenville, S.C.; Ariana Grande in Phoenix; and Sting in Hollywood.

Jon Olav Nesveld / NTB Scanpix – Sting
“The Nobel Peace Prize Concert,” Telenor Arena, Fornebu, Norway

OneRepublic @ The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif., Feb. 8 – “OneRepublic opened with ‘Love Runs Out,’ setting the energetic tone for the rest of the show. The drum and bass combination between percussionist Eddie Fisher and bassist Brent Kutzle resulted in a hefty rhythm that built up the audience’s energy.” – Alexandra Del Rosario / Daily Bruin

James Taylor @ Botanic Park in Adelaide, Australia, Feb. 9 – “There was a little story telling; how he got his break with Apple Records in the 1960s which led into the playing of ‘Carolina in My Mind,’ and his association with Carol King, of course, which led to ‘You’ve Got A Friend’ and ‘Up on the Roof.’” – Bruce Mitchell / The Advertiser

Bon Jovi @ Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, S.C., Feb. 8 – “The curtain fell to reveal a minimalist set in which the band and the songs were the focus. This was Bon Jovi’s first Greenville show in 11 years, and Jon Bon Jovi told the crowd the band would be playing songs ‘old, new, borrowed, blue.’” – Donna Isbell Walker / GreenvilleOnline

Brigette Sullivan / OuterFocusPhotos.com – Jon Bon Jovi
United Center, Chicago, Ill.

Ariana Grande @ Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, Ariz., Feb. 2 – “Vocally, Grande exuded more power and passion than ever, especially on the ballads, at times sitting on the stage to underscore the drama of the moment.” – Ed Masley / The Republic / AZCentral.com

Sting @ Hollywood Palladium in Hollywood, Calif., Feb. 8 – “He actively got the audience involved, clapping and singing along to his songs. And he had people, young and old, dancing the entire show.” – Caroline Kinley / The Daily Trojan