Gary Allan didn't need a runway, ramps or pyrotechnics to entertain.

At the Tyson Events Center Friday night, the country veteran had something better: Songs.

Racing through a lifetime of musical commentary, Allan managed to chronicle his own life in ways other singers couldn't.

His stage (spartan by Kenny Chesney standards) featured a simple screen, a small staircase and long red curtains.

His songs, however, were fiery, electric and full-bodied.

Wasting no time, Allan drove through three songs before taking a breath. "She's So California" got the crowd up and moving; "A Feelin' Like That" showed fans who was in control.

Attitude, so much a part of Allan's music, fueled much of what he did at the Tyson. While he wasn't arrogant, he did stay consistent throughout, letting the 'tude simmer.

"Nothing On But the Radio" may have been as low-key as he got -- and that was great. What makes Allan so entertaining is his ability to do exactly what other country singers don't.

Who else has a guitarist who wears a kilt?

The retro slides? They just added to the surprise and helped him emerge as the evening's wild card.

Closer to the vest? His openers.

Jack Ingram managed four sing-alongs, a tribute to the men and women in the military, a good number of hits and a romp on the stage in his bare feet. That's pretty good for 60 minutes and a career that has gotten plenty of trajectory in the last year.

A cross between Michael Johnson and Keith Urban (with a little Joe Don Rooney thrown in for good measure), Ingram has a back pocket full of story songs that he's not afraid to pull out at any given time.

His "Measure of a Man" offered a Mellencamp vibe, while "Barefoot and Crazy" cruised into Jimmy Buffett territory. As a testament to his longevity, Ingram got audience members to join him in taking off their socks and shoes for the number. While he stacked his boots on a microphone stand, the laid-back singer strutted around the stage. It was pretty invigorating and a nice intro to "Love You," a clever song with a double meaning.

Ingram deserves headliner status. He has a great catalog and a nice, easy manner on stage. He may not be another Kenny, but he's got the goods to bump Keith a little.

For "Barbie Doll," he even brought out members of the Eli Young Band, the night's openers. They were game, particularly since their own set didn't have the same impact. Mike Eli's vocals were often overwhelmed by the band's bass. They offered plenty from the "Jet Black and Jealous" CD, getting the most mileage out of "When it Rains." Eventually, Eli Young will get to Allan and Ingram status.

Those two weren't overnight sensations. But maybe great country music takes time to ripen.

If that's the case, Allan and Ingram are a special blend that now deserves savoring.