Having just reviewed the entire album from which it comes – Epilogue – I must say “I’m Doing Fine” gets better with each and every listen. If you like ‘60s -‘70s-inspired music – if you love The Doors and/or Fairport Convention – you’ll LOVE Rockford Road’s raw, natural sound dipped in blues-based, occasionally folk-leaning classic rock. Not sold? Then join me on a not copyright infringing carpet ride through the ebb and flow of this joyful melodic journey.
Wait. Who does what?
“I’m Doing Fine” features drummer Jim Davidson, multi-instrumentalist and lead singer Bob Mahan, bassist/vocalist Tom Wisneski, and the beautiful vocals of Victoria Cottrell.
Now, about the music
In the full review, I mentioned “I’m Doing Fine” begins in a style reminiscent of The Smashing Pumpkins. And although the song sticks to – or mostly orbits – those beginning chords, it quickly asserts its true identity, which is easily defined thanks to Victoria Cottrell’s pure, crystal clear voice. And that voice? It sounds like Fairport Convention’s Sandy Denny with its lighter than air calling and affect-deprived delivery. Again, “pure” is an accurate descriptor.
And with that voice (because it’s truly great and still worth discussing), there are harmonies that compare, a bit, to The Mamas & the Papas, and especially during the chorus. Honestly, this song oozes that gold harmonizing magic indicative of a lot of folksy rock music permeating the ‘60s and ‘70s. Hey, when Rockford Road does classic rock? They do it right.
Clocking in at over six minutes, “I’m Doing Fine” features a tasteful guitar break in the middle, a slight dip in energy for the bridge, a return to those original opening chords, and then a refrain of the verse and final, extra powerful chorus – and this is another section where Cottrell reaches into her range and really belts it out. And then, after the very last word of the very last chorus, the song gently ends on a single beat. Outstanding stuff.
But is it good?
Of course it’s good! This is rock and roll, baby! Don’t try to contain it, control it, or tame it – just let it happen. Let it be free, and let it carry you somewhere infinitely lighter than any and all everyday burdens. Modern rock left a great deal of its blossoming flower years behind, and I hope it’s deeply regretting that decision. Recommended.
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BELOW: Listen to Rockford Road and check them out on various social media platforms. Please support Rockford Road by visiting them online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing their music. And, as always, thank you for supporting real music.
Check out our interview with ROCKFORD ROAD:
INTERVIEW: Jim Davidson of Rockford Road
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