Song Review:

San Antonio Rose

Overall Impression:

Paying brilliant homage to Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys, Nolan Bruce Allen's Western Swing outfit delivers the tried and true melody of "San Antonio Rose" with renewed vibrancy and crisp musicality! Emotionally evocative vocal harmonies give depth and texture to the familiar tune as Nolan Bruce Allen himself croons away with spirited vigor - reviving and rejuvenating a much beloved staple of the Western Swing sound!

Strongest Point(s):

Launching right into action, the fiddles at work in "San Antonio Rose" draw an instant parallel to the players that they're quoting, keeping in close but uncrowded harmonic lockstep as the tune unfurls. Skillful steel guitar gives way to punchy piano work as NBA's signature tones bring the lyrics to life - deftly passing the vocal melody back and forth between a small mixed choir and Nolan himself while the guitar and fiddle continue to dazzle listeners in the interim. Not a note out of place or a beat out of time, Nolan Bruce Allen's cover of Bob Wills' "San Antonio Rose" is practically perfection!

Target Audience Appeal:

Listeners with a heart for Western Swing will know the song before the lyrics arrive, and once they do, they'll be blown away by Nolan Bruce Allen's performance of "San Antonio Rose"! Discerning listeners from any background will be able to recognize the depth of skill and passion for performance on display in Nolan Bruce Allen's sound, making "San Antonio Rose" yet another hallmark representation of the group's authentic talent and considerable ethic! - Jon W.

Artist target suggestions:

Spade Cooley & The Western Swing Dance Gang, The Sunshine Boys, Hank Penny and His Radio Cowboys, Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys, Billy Jack Wills & His Western Swing Band, Red Foley, Porky Freeman Trio, Jimmy Revard & His Oklahoma Playboys, Washboard Wonders, Jimmie Ballard, Homer Zeke Clemons

About the Reviewer:

Jon Wright is a trained multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and music educator with nearly twenty years of experience in the field. Working with musicians and their individual sounds is his passion and profession, and he strives to interact with and understand every aspect of the production process - from theory and songwriting to recording and mastering. He continues to teach students of all ages and is currently collaborating with artists across a wide range of genres.

 

Vocals: Strength
Lyrics: Strength
Instrumental Performance/Execution: Strength
Melody/Rhythm: Strength
Arrangement/Flow: Strength
Recording Quality/Overall Mix: Strength