Rosedale Junction’s latest offering, "Goin’ off the Rails," is a testament to the boundless creativity and musical prowess of this Boston-based Blues Americana band. Led by the multi-talented Toby Soriero, who not only plays a range of instruments but also takes on the roles of songwriter and producer, the album captures the essence of American roots music with a modern twist.
Opening with the title track, "Goin’ off the Rails," listeners are immediately transported to the rhythmic hum of Boston’s MBTA Green Line. The extended version of this track is an auditory journey that beautifully blends urban soundscapes with rich musical textures. Soriero’s guitar work is particularly noteworthy, capturing the spirit of classic blues with a fresh and vibrant edge.
The album features six original tracks, including the award-winning "309 Buckland Street," which clinched the 2023 New England Songwriting Competition (Blues Category). This track stands out with its soulful melodies and poignant lyrics, brought to life by the powerful vocals of Richard Farrell and the emotive harmonica playing of Trent Williamson. The interplay between Soriero’s guitar and Roger Smith’s piano creates a deeply engaging musical experience.
Covering classics such as Townes Van Zandt’s "Waiting Around to Die" and Joe Cocker’s "High Time We Went," Rosedale Junction pays homage to their influences while adding their unique flair. Dgiovahni Denize’s vocal performance on "Waiting Around to Die" is hauntingly beautiful, complemented by the layered organ work of Roger Smith and Phil Madeira. The addition of Andy Ellison’s pedal steel guitar adds a rich, atmospheric depth to the track.
Each song on the album showcases the exceptional talent of the guest artists. The energetic "Chicken Man Blues" features Dgiovahni Denize on vocals and bass, delivering a gritty and captivating performance. Jim Riley’s drumming throughout the album is both dynamic and precise, providing a solid backbone to each track.
The horn arrangements on "Junkin’ Down and Funkin’ Up," crafted by Mark Morgan, bring a vibrant, jazzy energy to the album. The synergy between the brass section and the harmonica creates a lively and infectious groove, making it a standout track.
Rosedale Junction’s ability to blend traditional blues with contemporary elements is evident in tracks like "Quarter Mile Blues" and "Momma Sure Was Right." Elishema Mannie’s background vocals add a rich, harmonious layer to "Quarter Mile Blues," while Joel Jorgensen’s lead vocals on "Momma Sure Was Right" are both heartfelt and resonant.
The production quality of "Goin’ off the Rails" is top-notch, thanks to the expert engineering of Alex Allison at The Bridge Sound and Stage in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Each instrument and vocal track is meticulously balanced, allowing the intricate details of the music to shine through.
"Goin’ off the Rails" is a masterful blend of blues, Americana, and rock, showcasing Rosedale Junction’s versatility and passion for music. Toby Soriero and his ensemble have created an album that is both a tribute to the roots of blues and a bold step forward, making it a must-listen for any music enthusiast. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their sound, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
"Goin’ off the Rails" is available on all major online music platforms. Don’t miss out on this exceptional musical journey.
You can listen on demand to our Global Voices podcast featuring all tracks from the album at the link HERE
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