There have been several tributes paid to America in honor of its 250th birthday this year, but none I would say are as fun and lighthearted as what’s been provided by The Kody Norris Show. Spirit of America, the group’s first concept album, honors the country’s grit, sacrifice, and legacy in their signature high energy, traditional bluegrass fashion.
The opening track Good Ol USA, was co-written by Kody along with Larry Chunn. With its catchy melody and bouncy rhythm, this song is symbolic of one’s patriotism. It also serves as the introduction for the current lineup of the Kody Norris Show, which consists of Kody on guitar, Mary Rachel Nalley-Norris on fiddle and mandolin, Charlie Lowman on bass, and Hayden “Jim” Hensley on banjo. Jason Barie also guests on this project providing twin fiddling to Mary Rachel.
The title song Spirit of America was penned by the late Aubrey Holt. From its narrative revolving around the working class people of this country, this is an excellent example of Holt’s ability to tell a story through song.
Pretty much all of the Kody Norris Show’s releases carry great examples of Kody as an interpreter of favorites within the traditional bluegrass canon. A Purple Heart by Curly Seckler is a perfect case in point. Norris delivers the song with strong conviction, making it one of the high points of this recording.
Declaration of Independence is a stout instrumental written by Mary Rachel. With incredible fiddle work from her and Michael Cleveland as well as driving banjo from Ron Stewart, this is a really captivating tune.
The last two tracks, Battle of New Orleans and Do Unto Others, are both fun in different ways. The former by Jimmie Driftwood was a massive country hit for Johnny Horton in 1959 and is performed here with great gusto. As with several other selections on this project, Gregg Lohman is featured on percussion. The latter by James Randolph is a fast paced number with a great message about how each one of us should treat our fellow man.
In a time where the USA is filled with division, strife, and uncertainty, The Kody Norris Show has brought forward a vibrant collection of music that gives us all a reason to celebrate.
