Ridge Banks - One Note At A Time

Ridge Banks

One Note At A Time
self-released; 2024

By Matt Jensen

Ridge Banks channels influences from luminaries like Jim Croce, John Denver and Eric Clapton. He seamlessly melds their picking styles with the rhythmic pulse of modern virtuosos such as Ed Sheeran, John Mayer and Tommy Emmanuel, crafting a distinctive sonic signature. With roots deeply embedded in the alternative tunings reminiscent of Stephen Stills, Joe Bonamassa and Dave Matthews, Banks infuses his music with an authentic edge. His compositions effortlessly blend blues, rock and country, resulting in an uplifting melange that resonates with genuine emotion. 

Having released his debut five-song EP in 2016 and a full-length album in November 2018, Banks migrated to Nashville in 2019, continuing his musical evolution. Presently immersed in the creation of a new album, both with his original quarantine garage band "Ridge Banks and the Wall of Sound" and as a solo artist, Banks has recently unveiled his single "Stare Too Long," released on Jan 4th, 2024, followed by the freshly dropped "One Note at a Time."

Delving into the sound, a detailed exploration begins with "One Note at a Time." The track radiates organic authenticity. its clean instrumentation creating an atmosphere akin to a live performance while maintaining impeccable production. Banks showcases his vocal abilities with a confident delivery, weaving a spectrum of emotions throughout the song. The strategic use of a banjo and nuanced brushwork on the drums injects a vibrant energy into the composition. 

"Stare Too Long," Banks' most recent single, unfolds as a beautifully crafted piece. Resonating with echoes of William Tyler's guitar work, the song carries a tender and sweet thematic core. Banks' vocals shine, expressing a range of emotions with a delightful touch of humor, making the listener resonate with relatable moments of self-awareness and contemplation. Rounding out the exploration is "Half a Mile from Normal," the most rock-oriented offering in Banks' repertoire. A joyous ride from start to finish, the track boasts crunchy guitar fills and a steady, hard-hitting drum beat. The bass, with its tasteful fills, deserves due recognition for complementing the track's overall vigor. Banks' sonic versatility captivates, and the diverse facets of his sound showcased in these tracks leave a lasting impression. 

​The anticipation for his upcoming album is undoubtedly fueled by the intriguing glimpses into the multifaceted artistry of Ridge Banks.

ridgebanksmusic.com

Tweet