Dierks Bentley puts on a rousing performance Aug. 23 at Harveys. Photos/Kathryn Reed

By Kathryn Reed

STATELINE – Dressed in his signature tight T-shirt with biceps bulging as he stroked the guitar, there is no doubt why People magazine earlier this year named Dierks Bentley country’s hottest guy.

However, Kip Moore, the third opening act, might have a good chance to usurp that title from Bentley.

For those who weren’t admiring Bentley’s physique, there was plenty to applaud about his music in the 15-set plus, two encore show at Harveys on Aug. 23. It was a mix of soulful and playful lyrics.

Bentley’s music has garnered him 12 Grammy nominations.

Life hasn’t always been so great for Dierks Bentley. This is obvious from the lyrics on his latest album “Riser” that was released in 2014. It’s a bit introspective, a bit spiritual and definitely memorable.

The rough stretch, though, produced three No. 1 singles — “I Hold On”, “Drunk On A Plane” and “Say You Do.”

A few “pilots” were in the audience Sunday, including one who was invited on to the stage during “Drunk on a Plane”.

Fans Sunday night at Harveys knew the lyrics as well as the country star. It was like a sing-along at times.

“Riser” – Bentleys seventh album – was released the year after his father died and his third child was born. “Riser” is a song about resilience and determination, and is where the album title comes from.

On his website, Bentely says, “Life in general has a way of knocking you down. It’s different reasons for different folks – could be personal reasons, could be family reasons, your job, drugs, alcohol. That song really applies to anybody that’s lived. There have always been those moments when we have to get back up and get on our feet. They are defining moments … breakthrough moments.”

On Sunday night – while he played “Riser” and “I Hold On” to the appreciative audience, it was obvious there was something more to the songs than just lyrics. You could feel the passion and sentiment Bentley has for the words he is singing.

Several times he mentioned how this was his first trip to the area – adding he wants to come back.

Before the star took to the stage Kip Moore, Maddie & Tae, and Canaan Smith warmed up the nearly full house. Bentley brought each of them on stage to sing with him.         

If Bentley’s singing career ends anytime soon he has a fallback plan. In July 2016 he will open his fourth Whiskey Row restaurant. This one will be in Las Vegas. They started in his home state of Arizona where there are eateries in Tempe and Scottsdale, there is also one in Chicago.