[rating=8.00]
Hot Rize is one of the most influential and pioneering bluegrass bands of the last 35 years. In 1978, Hot Rize began conjuring up their addicting brand of Colorado bluegrass that honors the traditional while embracing their own influences of blues, country, and celtic music. They have influenced a wide range of popular artists such as Nickel Creek, Punch Brothers, Steve Martin, Yonder Mountain String Band, and Dierks Bentley. The group disbanded in 1990 to pursue solo careers and it has been over 24 years since their last studio album and major tour together.
Hot Rize is Tim O’Brien (lead vocals and mandolin), Nick Forster (bass and vocals), Pete Wernick (banjo and vocals) and newest member Bryan Sutton (guitar and vocals) who replaced the late Charley Sawtelle after his death in 1999. Their new studio album, When I’m Free captures a group of incredibly talented veterans making some of the best music of their careers.
“Western Skies” is the perfect way for a Colorado bluegrass band to start off an album with dreamy lyrics of “when I see those western skies, sun shines on the open plains, blue sky across the mountain range” alongside by rolling banjo and effortless tight harmonies. The first single, “Blue is Falling” gets a bluesy treatment with O’Brien’s lonesome vocals and “dawg-style” mandolin while Sutton adds some nice guitar work. Pete Wernick’s instrumental “Sky Rider” highlights the impeccable instrumental prowess all four members display as a tight live band. “I am the Road” features Sutton on vocals and showcases the group’s gospel-style harmonies that are one of the most memorable tracks on the album due to its spiritual lyrics and humble arrangement. A few other standouts include the heartfelt folk tune “You Were On My Mind” and classic Hot Rize sound on “Clary Mae” that recalls some of their earlier work. When I’m Free is a solid proclamation from a band that’s been around for 35 years with plans to keep the “Radio Boogie” alive for years to come.
