Rodney Rice returns to Taos with his five-piece band
RODNEY RICE IS A LOT OF things. He’s part “Almost Heaven West Virginia” combined with “Rocky Mountain High.” He’s part kayak and river guide combined with Texas oil and gas rig geologist. He laughs easily at a silly notion and doesn’t back away from the challenge of a deep question. And, he’s also part singer-songwriter who will be performing with his band at Taos Lifestyle on Friday April 7.
On the cusp of releasing his third album (this one is self-titled), Rice has learned how to combine all of the components that make up who he is into his music, including the wide array of feelings and emotions that come from the veritable patchwork of living an authentic life.
Rice has played at Mary Domito’s Taos Lifestyle before, but it was during the “are we, or aren’t we?” stage of the pandemic, and many, including, Domito, missed the show. That time, Rice played with his trio, but this time,
he’s bringing his full five-piece ensemble including piano, pedal steel guitar, drum, bass and guitar.
True to manifold form, Rice’s music is a little bit John Prine meets Jimmy Buffet with The Byrds and Pure Prairie League joining in and inviting a host of other genres and talents. His lyrics are a combination of poignant meets amusing which organically call dancers to the floor.
“I grew up with music,” explained the West Virginia native from his Colorado home, “and my experience working on rivers, mines and rigs has allowed me to connect with people from so many different places.” Those experiences literally play out in his music and, for Rice, much of it is about connection. “So much of our current news and our world dehumanizes people, yet we’re all connected. Music brings us together. We need more music and we need more dance floors.”
The dance floor will be ready when Domito opens the doors to her Taos
Lifestyle destination store for the free, donations-encouraged show. “We are excited to have Rodney Rice return,” commented Domito. “Having grown up in Northern California, I wasn’t exposed to country or Americana music. The blend of musical genres, with the depth of lyrics that Rodney Rice creates, along with so many talented musicians who play in this area, speaks to me. We are fortunate to have someone of his talent play for our community.”
Rice’s music, along with his perspective, blends seamlessly with the Taos way of life. “I’ve always admired the aspect of insignificance because it keeps everything in perspective. My songs come from that place, from unplugging from the static noise of our busy backgrounds and being present. When you’re in a remote, wild place, you realize you’re just a speck in the universe.”
Rice plans to play a mix of songs from all three albums, including “Rabbit Ears Hotel,” the first single to be released from his new LP — due to be released May 19. The new album is his first to be recorded in Nashville’s Bomb Shelter studio and Taoseños will be among the first to hear tracks from what is likely to be a catalyst to the next steps in his musical career. Rice’s warm yet gritty vocals combine with melodies that move listeners to feel, to think and, yes, to dance.
“I am excited to return to Taos and grateful to have someone like Mary Domito who provides support for independent artists. I wish every town had someone like Mary,” Rice said.