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The Rides, an American blues supergroup, epitomizes the rebirth of classic blues with a modern twist. Formed in 2013, the band consists of storied musicians Stephen Stills of Crosby, Stills, and Nash fame, guitar prodigy Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and seasoned keyboardist Barry Goldberg. The genesis of The Rides followed a compelling performance at a benefit event led by Stills, sparking the formation of what Stills himself describes as “the blues band of my dreams.”
Their debut album, Can’t Get Enough, released on August 23, 2013, under 429 Records, catapulted the band into the blues spotlight. It achieved a peak position of number one on the Billboard Top Blues Albums Chart and secured notable positions across international charts, reflecting the global appeal of their revivalist blues sound. The album’s success was bolstered by the seasoned rhythm section consisting of bassist Kevin McCormick, who previously collaborated with Crosby, Stills, and Nash in 2012, and Chris Layton formally of Double Trouble and Shepherd’s long-time drummer, both of whom joined the band for their 2013 tour.
Following up on their initial success, The Rides released their second studio album, Pierced Arrow, on May 6, 2016, through Provogue Records. The album repeated their chart-topping success in the blues category and also made significant inroads internationally, showcasing the enduring appeal of their music.
THE RIDES STUDIO ALBUMS
Can’t Get Enough
Released: August 23, 2013
Label: 429 Records
Can’t Get Enough is the debut album of The Rides, featuring the stellar lineup of Stephen Stills, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and Barry Goldberg. This album captures the raw, vibrant energy of the blues infused with rock elements, making it a standout release in 2013. The album was produced by Jerry Harrison of Talking Heads fame and recorded at various studios, including EastWest Studios in Los Angeles. Upon its release, it soared to number 1 on the Billboard Top Blues Albums Chart and also secured notable positions internationally, underscoring the global appeal of their sound.
CD Track Listings:
- “Roadhouse” – 4:04
- “That’s a Pretty Good Love” – 3:32
- “Don’t Want Lies” – 4:41
- “Search and Destroy” – 2:28
- “Can’t Get Enough of Loving You” – 6:13
- “Honey Bee” – 7:17
- “Rockin’ in the Free World” – 6:08
- “Talk to Me Baby” – 3:46
- “Only Teardrops Fall” – 4:54
- “Word Game” – 4:35
Pierced Arrow
Released: May 6, 2016
Label: Provogue Records
The Rides returned with their second album Pierced Arrow, which built on their initial success, offering a deeper exploration into the blues-rock genre. Recorded in Los Angeles at Sunset Sound, the album continued to feature the cohesive and dynamic interplay between Stills’ and Shepherd’s guitars, with Goldberg’s keyboards enriching the sonic palette. Like its predecessor, Pierced Arrow reached number 1 on the Billboard Top Blues Albums Chart, reaffirming the group’s place in the contemporary blues scene.
CD Track Listings:
- “Kick Out of It” – 4:05
- “Riva Diva” – 3:22
- “Virtual World” – 4:08
- “By My Side” – 5:14
- “Mr. Policeman” – 4:09
- “I’ve Got to Use My Imagination” – 6:13
- “Game On” – 4:04
- “I Need Your Lovin'” – 4:26
- “There Was a Place” – 4:41
- “My Babe” – 4:10
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