Rose Gerber – Untraveled Highway
Portland Oregon-based musician songwriter Rose Gerber is releasing a new EP this week, Untraveled Highway. The connotation of an untraveled highway is one that beckons to our curiosity with the promise of solitude and discover. Releasing this quite wonderful set of songs that are an ode to the byway roadtrip on the week of Independence Day heralds a renewed image of what America can still be. And what Americana and folks songs ought to be.
“Captain” is the opening song as it unfolds peacefully with a casual beat and a style that draws you closer in to listen more intently. “Watching the sun sink / trying not to count the times left to see it close the day. After I’m gone, what will be left of me? … Oh Captain….” Rose has some vocal tones akin to Margo Cilker, with a dash of Lori McKenna, channeling that same type of captivating quality.
“Last Miles” showcases a storytelling style of someone trying not to regret some of their decisions “radio is company, I guess the Kenworth’s home, most of time’s left thinking how I left you home alone… if I could, I’d share with you all of my regrets. please forgive me Ann Marie, this is all I know how to be.”
“Off to See America” is an uptempo celebration of the American road trip, complete with images of Kentucky, fireworks, and some Kerouac for good measure. With such optimism, songs like this just might bring us all back together. The title track, released early, closes the album with more good vibrations from the highway less traveled, with”I set out for Washington, late into the night, cold air on my face, windows down.” We’re right there with Rose as she sets the scene. That’s the mark of good songwriting.
This little gem definitely ought to get onto some year-end best of lists. It’s skilled, high quality songwriting well worth checking into. Find more information and music here on her website: https://www.rosegerbermusic.com
Musicians on the album are Rose Gerber on lead vocals and acoustic guitar; Aika Collins on backing vocals; Jeff Porter on lead guitar; Tucker Jackson on pedal steel guitar; Arcellus Sykes on bass; Casey Tuck on drums; Sidney Nash on organ; and Matthew Peluso on dobro, mandolin, and synth/keys.
Untraveled Highways was produced by Rose Gerber, mixed by Matt Greco at The Rye Room and
mastered by Amy Dragon at Telegraph. Drums, bass, acoustic guitar and organ were recorded by Frankie Piacentini at Page St. Sound Lab. Electric guitar, pedal steel and vocals were recorded by Kyle Patrick Cregan at Singing Sands.