Country star Luke Bryan kicks off his “Mind of a Country Boy” tour with a lively performance full of classic hits and crowd engagement in Calgary.

Luke Bryan captivated a sold-out crowd at the Saddledome on Wednesday, marking the start of his “Mind of A Country Boy” tour with a vibrant display of his greatest hits. Known for his high-energy performances, Bryan did not disappoint, delivering a night filled with engaging country anthems that have defined his career over the past 15 years.

From the outset, Bryan set the tone for a night of country revelry, engaging the audience with questions about their favourite pastimes—hunting, fishing, and enjoying various drinks. These moments of interaction paved the way for his hit song “Huntin’, Fishin’ and Lovin’ Every Day,” which he turned into a captivating extended jam featuring banjo duels and honky-tonk piano.

The performance showcased Bryan’s trademark blend of bro-country—a label he might not favour but has undoubtedly shaped. The set list was predictably filled with anthems about the simple pleasures of rural life, from the joys of a cold beer to the comfort of country living. Yet, Bryan’s charm lies in his ability to perform these themes with a knowing grin, suggesting he’s fully aware of the playful absurdity in his lyrics.

Throughout the evening, Bryan’s energy never waned. He moved seamlessly through hits like “Kick the Dust Up” and “Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye,” each song maintaining the high spirits of the crowd. Despite the formulaic nature of the set, the audience’s enthusiasm never faltered, indicating that they came for exactly this type of performance—a testament to Bryan’s understanding of his audience.

Adding depth to the night were moments of heartfelt balladry, including a poignant rendition of “Drink a Beer” and a soulful performance of “Buy Dirt.” These songs provided a contrast to the high-octane anthems, showcasing Bryan’s versatility as an artist.

Supporting acts Tenille Arts and Chayce Beckham added their unique flavours to the evening, with Arts overcoming technical difficulties to deliver a strong set of country-pop tunes, and Beckham bringing a rock-infused energy that complemented Bryan’s style.

The concert concluded with Bryan donning a Flames jersey and returning to the stage for an encore performance of “That’s My Kind of Night,” a song that once sparked controversy but now serves as a unifying sing-along for his fans. Despite criticisms of its style, the song’s lively performance underscored the communal joy of a Luke Bryan concert.

As Bryan continues his tour, it’s clear that his formula—while predictable—remains a powerful draw for country music fans seeking a night of straightforward fun and familiar tunes. Bryan’s show at the Saddledome was a reminder of why he remains a beloved figure in country music, capable of turning any venue into a celebration of country life.