Simon RushworthThe Rides – Pierced Arrow (Provogue)
Genre: Blues Rock/Country Rock
Almost as soon as The Rides released emotive debut Can’t Get Enough fans of classy blues rock realised they really couldn’t. The demand for its follow-up gathered pace even before the dust had settled on the first collaboration between Stephen Stills, Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Barry Goldberg. And Pierced Arrow comfortably hits the target.
Perhaps lacking the instant appeal of its predecessor, this slow-burning set of full-on rockers and measured ballads gradually peels away the creative layers at the heart of three impossibly talented musicians.
Each member is afforded the space to breathe but spreading the load never feels forced. The band’s take on the Bobby ‘Blue’ Bland version of I’ve Got To Use My Imagination does what it says on the tin: this is no lazy interpretation of a bona fide blues classic as The Rides offer a vibrant new twist on a timeless favourite.
Proven songwriter Goldberg is the real star in a band that tries earnestly to shy away from individual glory in favour of a collective blues rock force. The Chicago tinkler stealthily steals the show and fans of keyboard wizardry will lap up the superb Pierced Arrow.
RUSHONROCK RATED: 9/10 Rollercoaster Rides