Tony Rice was an American bluegrass musician and guitarist, widely regarded as one of the most influential acoustic guitarists in the genre’s history. Rice influenced players from Ricky Skaggs (both Rice and Skaggs were in the group The New South and also recorded the album Skaggs & Rice in 1980) to Chris Eldridge of Punch Brothers, Billy Strings, and just about everyone in between. Released in 1983, Tony Rice’s Church Street Blues is a timeless masterpiece that effortlessly blends elements of bluegrass, folk, and country music. The album stands as a testament to Rice’s virtuosity as a guitarist and his ability to evoke deep emotions through his music. Only ever pressed on vinyl on its release in 1983, Craft Recordings is reissuing Rice’s influential album on 180-gram vinyl cut from the original master tapes (AAA) by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio.
The title track, “Church Street Blues,” immediately captures the listener’s attention with its haunting melody and evocative lyrics. Rice’s soulful vocals, coupled with his intricate guitar playing, transport the audience to a place of introspection and longing. The song’s narrative of heartache and loss resonates deeply, touching upon universal themes of love and redemption.
Throughout the album, Rice showcases his impeccable musicianship, effortlessly weaving complex guitar arrangements with poignant storytelling. Cover tunes like “Streets Of London” by Ralph McTell and “One More Night” by Bob Dylan demonstrate Rice’s mastery of his craft, with each note ringing out with clarity and precision while telling stirring tales of wistful characters. On instrumental songs like “Cattle in the Cane” and “The Gold Rush,” Rice’s playing is characterized by its fluidity, precision, and innovation. His distinctive flatpicking style, characterized by fast, clean runs and intricate chord progressions, set a new standard for acoustic guitarists in the genre.
Church Street Blues is not only a showcase of Rice’s instrumental prowess but also a testament to his deep connection to the roots of American music. His reverence for tradition is evident in every note, yet he manages to infuse each song with his own unique style and flair. Throughout his career, Rice collaborated with numerous legendary musicians, including David Grisman, Jerry Garcia, and Bela Fleck, among others. He was a member of influential bluegrass bands such as J.D. Crowe & the New South, The Tony Rice Unit, and The Bluegrass Album Band, leaving an indelible mark on the genre with his contributions. Church Street Blues is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences decades after its release. Tony Rice’s masterful musicianship and emotive storytelling make this album a must-listen for fans of bluegrass, folk, and country music alike.
