Better than average Ferrell becomes truly memorable

Sierra Ferrell's better than average concert became truly memorable about two-thirds of the way through: the moment she was joined by actor John C. Reilly (wearing a black with red trim outfit from "Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story).

Once saddled up next to Ferrell, who was also wearing a semi-matching black-with-red outfit, Reilly harmonized perfectly with her on two old country songs. The first was "I Can't Help It (If I'm Still in Love With You)," followed by Ray Price's "Crazy Arms." This suggested two takeaways. One, Reilly is actually a legitimately fine singer, and two, Ferrell has really good taste in country music. Of course, we already knew about her excellent taste from the songs she's written. This part of the show only made us love Ferrell all the more.

Ferrell, opened the show wearing a flowery country girl dress and black cowboy hat, playing the cowgirl role perfectly with western-themed songs, "Silver Dollar" and "West Virginia Waltz." Throughout her healthy 25-song set, Ferrell consistently impressed with a strong singing voice. She mostly accompanied herself on acoustic guitar, but also played fiddle on a few.

Backed by a stellar four-piece band, Ferrell danced, sang and appeared to be having a great time. This audience for this first of a two-night stand loved every minute of her traditional country set. Many in the crowd – this was Hollywood, after all – dressed like farmers and farmer's wives. None more authentically than the guy in a full cow outfit. Turns out, he was with the band and even took the stage during an instrumental portion to do a silly barnyard dance.

Sierra Hull quipped how this amounted to a 'Sierra squared' tour, performed approximately forty-five minutes of fiery bluegrass-inspired music, spearheaded by the artist's fast mandolin work. She opened with "How Long," and closed with "Long Way," and left the crowd amazed.

Both Sierras know how to make traditional music fun, and this night's double bill was so joyful, it made one want to dance around drunkenly, like a guy in a cow suit.