Whether you see The Kody Norris Show live on stage or hear them on recordings, there’s no question as to what you’re experiencing. Kody and his three bandmates pay homage to the traditional bluegrass masters, while also maintaining a strong sense of individuality. It’s displayed in spades on Rhinestone Revival, their second release on Rebel Records.
The album kicks off with Mountain Rosalie. Covered by numerous artists over several decades, this track is a great example of The Kody Norris Show’s ability to mold an older piece of material into their own distinctive fashion. Featuring the duet vocals of Kody Norris and banjoist Josiah Tyree, this performance also includes great instrumental work from Mary Rachel Nalley-Norris on fiddle, Charlie Lowman on bass, and special guest Tony Creasman on percussion.
Kody himself contributed several songs to this project. Baltimore I’m Leaving tells of one realizing they aren’t cut out for fast paced city living while Fiddler’s Rock tells a haunting tale about the legendary Johnson County, TN fiddler, Martin Stone. The latter track features great harmony fiddle from Jason Barie.
Please Tell Me Why was also written by Kody and contains powerful vocals from he, Mary Rachel, and Josiah. This track will especially be enjoyed by those who love the high trio harmony most prominently featured on Jimmy Martin’s recordings in the late 1950s and early 1960s. This piece once again includes excellent twin fiddling from Nalley-Norris and Barie.
Endless Highway will be most familiar to listeners through Alison Krauss, who featured the song on her 1990 album, I’ve Got That Old Feeling. Performed here by Mary Rachel Nalley-Norris, this song features great vocal harmony from Darin and Brooke Aldridge. It should be mentioned that Darin also produced the album and played mandolin on several tracks.
I Call Her Sunshine is a love song that’s full of optimism. Featuring Josiah Tyree on lead vocals, this performance is full of drive and has one of the catchiest melodies you will ever hear.
Rhinestone Revival is an outstanding recording from start to finish. This effort truly captures The Kody Norris Show at the top of their game. They’re not only carrying the torch of traditional bluegrass, but consistently drawing new fans in and bringing them along for the ride. It’s a ride that you don’t want to end!
