Bo Bice - 'Inside Your Heaven' - 'Vehicle'

Ultimately, "Inside Your Heaven" is a mediocre song that neither Bo Bice's rocker growl nor Carrie Underwood's vocal range can rescue. "Vehicle" is a great choice giving Bo Bice room to show off his interpretive talent. It will be fun to see where he goes next.

Now that we have two versions of the song "Inside Your Heaven" by both American Idol winner Carrie Underwood and runner-up Bo Bice, one aspect of the song is readily apparent. It is a mediocre song that can't really be rescued by either singer. Both are very strong vocalists - possibly among the very best that American Idol has yet produced, but it's unfortunate they both have to start their recording careers here.

Fortunately, Bo Bice's B-side is a much better showcase for his talents. He tears through "Vehicle," the classic pop-rocker by Ides of March, with ease. Bice would have fit well with the late 60's - early 70's "horn bands" that included Blood, Sweat and Tears, early Chicago, and Ides Of March. These groups utilized full-throated powerful male vocalists to counterbalance the horn attack. Bo Bice's voice has that power.

The big question we're left with after this single is which direction Bo Bice will head. Will he choose to pursue a career as a Southern rocker since he has shown a strong affection for the likes of Lynyrd Skynyrd? Or will he attempt a classic pop-rock sound like is present on "Vehicle?" With the support of the powerful Clive Davis he's likely to have a number of established pop and rock musicians lining up to support him, such as in Richie Sambora's tasteful guitar on "Vehicle." The future seems wide open.

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