The true test of a musician's talent lies in the live performance and Wednesday night at Shank Hall Marc Broussard proved he's got talent and then some.
The Louisiana native brought his soul power and funk agility right from the get go, dishing out a Southern slice of life. Opening with a smooth cover of Brian McKnight's "I Belong to You," Broussard unleashed his baritone voice -- a seemingly effortless task -- and maintained a smile throughout. A booming response with many people standing led Broussard and his band to strike up James Brown's "Sex Machine."
Broussard then transitioned into music from his latest release "Carencro," named for his Louisiana birthplace. "Come Around," "Save Me," Beauty of Who You Are" and "Wanderer" all captured the essence of a new style of pop music: soulful songs with meaning. A few tunes off of his independent first album "Momentary Setback" aided a well-rounded set list.
It could have been Sunday with the gospel undertones in numerous songs, such as when Broussard jammed out and got everyone to throw their hands up and yell, "Hallelujah," likely rooting from his days as a member of his church choir. Whether it was gospel, funk or rock, Broussard demonstrated expertise in all genres.
Gibb, the guitarist in the band, removed his hat during one of the songs and proceeded to play the guitar with his teeth as the crowd watched in awe and rewarded him with thunderous applause.
Shank Hall was close to capacity, not only with people, but with energy as well.
For Marc Broussard and his bandmates, all hailing from Louisiana, each feels right at home on stage.
