It’s a two-for-one special from the Rockford Road camp today. This Richmond-based classic rock group is releasing two brand new singles on June 10th in advance of their full-length, twelve-track album 60 Grit. We’ve already fully indulged ourselves in the warm and inviting sounds of Doin’ Nuthin’, so now we’ll dive headfirst into the B side of this digital 45; the single Irish Grass explores an entirely different side of the Rockford Road sound.
On this single we’re treated to the vocals of Victoria Cottrell, and it’s an immediate highlight of the track. Her voice is a captivating mix of smoky and angelic, rife with delicate riffs and powerful moments (listen to the closing line of the first chorus for a particularly stunning moment). And it sits beautifully over a well-composed mix of keys, strings, and guitars. The track is ballad-like, but never too slow nor lacking in energy; perhaps anthemic is a more apt description. It builds with intention across its length, soaring all the way into the second refrain, before setting us gently down on the other side.
It should come as no surprise that the songwriting is another high point in this release, as Rockford Road has shown us time and again that they value quality lyrics and compelling storytelling in their work. But where Irish Grass shines is in its poeticism, its evocative and vivid word choice. Listen through the chorus and find yourself transported to the coast of Ireland:
“Green runs through my pores
The mist unlocks the doors
And all those memories stored
Come crashing through
My mind has been set free
And now my soul can see
I hear the Manx sea
Lying in the grass“
If you’re looking for a band with artistic range but a classic sound at its core, bringing compelling stories to life with their throwback, no-nonsense instrumentation that allows their well-crafted songs to be their centerpieces, you’re looking for Rockford Road. Between the release of this breathtaking single Irish Grass alongside Doin’ Nuthin’, we have high expectations (and an even higher level of anticipation) for their upcoming full-length album 60 Grit.
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BELOW: Check out our full artist interview with Rockford Road, listen to Irish Grass, and connect with their website and social media platforms. Please support Rockford Road by visiting them online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing their music, or attending a live show! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!
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Check out our interview with ROCKFORD ROAD:
INTERVIEW: Rockford Road (Click HERE)
Follow, stream, download & connect with ROCKFORD ROAD online:
Listen to IRISH GRASS by ROCKFORD ROAD:
Irish Grass Premieres on June 10th, 2021