Search - Rhonda Vincent and the Rage :: Ragin Live

+ 1/2 stars...Powerful Live Album!

Steve Vrana | Aurora, NE | 04/08/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Having attended numerous bluegrass festivals over the years--most recently to hear the Del McCroury Band--it has been my experience that bluegrass music is best experienced live, and this live concert from Rhonda Vincent & the Rage only serves to drive that point home. This is a breathtaking experience. Following the introduction by WGTY DJ Hank Janney, Vincent and her band tear through a powerful rendition of "Kentucky Borderline" (one of five songs from 2003's ONE STEP AHEAD). And they maintain that level of energy throughout the entire concert, whether on uptempo songs like "Drivin' Nails in My Coffin" or the mournful "Missouri Moon." If you're new to the music of Rhonda Vincent, this is a great place to start; If you're a longtime fan, this is a must-have purchase. [Running Time - 71:38] HIGHLY RECOMMENDED"

Just Gotta Love It!

Kyra_Athena | Georgia USA | 05/11/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This LIVE cd is a very exceptional one, possibly the best one I've bought all year. While Rhonda Vincent does bluegrass and a wonderful job too, never once did I find the music cloying. It's traditional bluegrass, most definitely, but "above the crowd." The way it's presented makes you feel like you're involved with the performance."

Breathtaking bluegrass

M. Richmond | Albuquerque, NM | 11/19/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"At the risk of committing critical hyperbole, it's almost impossible to heap too much praise on "Ragin' Live," the superb concert recording from bluegrass icons Rhonda Vincent and the Rage. Vincent's vocals are sublime, the harmonies blend gloriously, the musicianship is top-notch, and the repertoire of songs reflects a sound grasp of what it takes to thrill an audience. The synthesis of these elements is nothing short of breathtaking.



The performers get things started energetically with "Kentucky Borderline," the International Bluegrass Association's song of the year for 2004, which Vincent co-wrote. Right out of the gate, Vincent and her band showcase their considerable talents, as voices and instruments soar with grace and power. Either by accident or design, the lyrics, which speak of a locomotive barreling through the Kentucky countryside, provide a metaphor for what's happening on stage and what is to come - "Movin' through the darkness like a hurricane... pounding out a rhythm... heading for that bluegrass state of mind..."



The disc's 20 cuts are a collection of up-tempo scorchers, gentle ballads, and outstanding instrumentals. All are characterized by a degree of precision rare to a live recording. Voices and instruments intertwine flawlessly. Even when locked in fast-moving turns and flourishes, the elements move together with the exactitude of jet pilots performing tight formations at an air show. Different venues, to be sure, but with the same result: an audience spellbound by the performance.



It's hardly fair to choose favorites from the set, as every offering is praiseworthy, but a few earn special admiration. "I've Forgotten You" is a medium-tempo heartbreaker with clever lyrics that speak of lost love and self-denial. The tune shines on the strength of Josh Williams' superb mandolin contribution and some beautifully delicate harmonies. "One Step Ahead of the Blues" is a fun bluegrass frolicker, heavy of banjo and fiddles. Of particular note is the harmony provided by Vincent's eldest daughter, Sally. It's done so well that the audience erupts with spontaneous applause at the end of the first chorus. "Son Drop In" is a two-person instrumental showcasing Hunter Berry on fiddle and Williams again on mandolin. As the two torridly pass lead and accompaniment back and forth, the listener is amazed at how well both can play either roll so well and at how much music two people can make with 12 strings.



Listeners who already know Vincent's music and her stature in the bluegrass genre will come to this CD with high expectations, and they will not be disappointed. But "Ragin' Live" will also please newcomers to bluegrass. I can think of no other entrée for the uninitiated that would better represent this style of music, nor one that stands a better chance at wowing the newcomer and claiming a convert.



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