Patrick Noel Russ "Rise Up" EP

Alt-Country rocker and all-around busy guy Patrick Noel Russ is out with an energetic and melodious EP titled "Rise Up." The four-track album is laden with the professionalism and expert songcraft we've come to expect from the frontman of The Lucky Sevens (a successful CA Americana band, for the uninitiated). The release date is in only 2 days (Sept 25, 2021), so make sure to check out Patrick's website here. 

The EP begins with "I Can Take You" which has a lot of jam-band flavors; the pulsating rhythm guitar is a signature of the singer/songwriter genre and Mr. Russ gives us a two-fisted embrace of the style. Track number two is "Hero" which carries a bit of Calexico-esque vibe with lovely slide guitars and mild mariachi rhythms (it's a huge plus in my book). "Out Here" gives us a jaunt into a more folk soundscape, but the rasp of the vocals evoke a smoky dimly lit street outside a blues club, still it's an optimistic-sounding tune. Finally, we end with "All I Need to Be," a very anthem-like song that reminds us of resilience and strength. For fans of R.E.M., this last song is a welcome experience. 

"Rise Up" is expertly produced and the instrumental performances are first-rate. For his part, Patrick Noel Russ is a gifted singer and it would be hard to imagine any other vocalist performing these songs. I imagine most listeners will enjoy this newest contribution to our playlists as much as I did.