An award winning banjo player, singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and composer, Rudy Cortese is known for his penchant for fusing bluegrass, country, classical, roots, Americana, and even jazz influences to create a style that’s become all his own. Taking an approach that finds room for both abandon and precision, he creates a sound that knows no boundaries, and yet still manages to exude his own urgency and authenticity to a creative and consistent extent.
His band, Rudy’s Bluegrass Revue, expresses his passion, but it’s not due to his efforts on banjo alone. The soaring harmonies and expressive instrumentation are the result of a cohesive combination of like-minded musicians. Vocalist, tenor guitarist, and cellist Elizabeth Kronlage, bassist Chris Carter and recent recruit, David Johnson, on fiddle, mandolin, dobro, guitar, and cello, freely provide added input as well. The songs they share take on a personal perspective, one which eventually culminates in an incisive mix flush with daring and diversity.
Nowhere is that more evident in the optimism and positivity expressed in You Are My Sun, a song sung to a child that’s brought hope, happiness, and fulfillment to their father’s life. An exuberant mix of fiddle and banjo underscore the emotion which is brought to bear in this tender and touching narrative. Long Days & Cold Nights shares a sense of longing even though the mandolin and high harmonies exude an upbeat feeling despite the disappointment that’s expressed overall. The rapid-fire revelry of Booger Red, the album’s sole instrumental offering, offers yet another example of the group’s infectious energy.
That drive and dynamic remain intact once again even as heartbreak and heartache come to the fore yet again, this time courtesy of the tellingly-titled Leaving Me Blue. The sentiment shines yet again in the sad saga shared through Good Man, a fond farewell to those gone too soon. In this case, it’s a poignant perspective that defines the delivery.
Ultimately, Rudy’s Bluegrass Revue provides a compact yet compelling collection of songs with clear emotive appeal. A follow-up simply can’t come too soon.
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