Texan native Amanda Kate Ferris is making waves with her new album, ‘Rope the Wind,' a slick, passionate, and beautifully produced collection of songs. Ferris grew up immersed in the sounds of 90s country icons like Wynonna Judd, Faith Hill, and Brooks & Dunn, while also drawing inspiration from pop powerhouses such as Celine Dion and Christina Aguilera. This blend of influences is evident in her powerful and emotive vocals.
Amanda's musical journey was shaped by her mother, Kathy Wright, a singer-songwriter with a storied career. Kathy was an original member of the ‘Dean Martin Golddiggers,' performing on ‘The Dean Martin Show' on NBC at the young age of 18. She also toured internationally with Bob Hope, performing in his USO-sponsored Christmas shows. Kathy's passion for music deeply influenced Amanda, who was introduced to the stage at just one week old, nestled in a bassinet while her mother performed.
By the age of two, Amanda was joining her mother on stage to sing each night. Her early experiences in music were further enriched by performing in church and singing original songs written by her mom. By the time she turned 14, Amanda was already singing professionally, showcasing her deep connection to country music and its industry. Life's twists and turns have taken her from the West Coast to Nashville to Texas and all of those journey's are reflected in the songs she sings on ‘Rope the Wind.'
Half of the songs on ‘Rope the Wind' formed an EP, ‘Pedal Steel' that Amanda released last year so to avoid retreading old ground you can read our review of that EP right here and we will focus on the newer songs in this review.
Produced by Jimmy Ritchey, the 10-track project features contributions from a roster of acclaimed writers and artists, including GRAMMY-winners Hillary Lindsey, Liz Rose, and Lori McKenna, as well as ACM and CMA Entertainer of the Year Lainey Wilson. “‘Rope The Wind' is an album that was born from my deepest love for country music,” Ferris shared. “I wanted to deliver powerful vocal performances like the legends I grew up on, such as Wynonna Judd, heartfelt ballads reminiscent of Lee Ann Womack, and a tribute to the timeless sound of 90s country. This album isn’t about following trends; it’s about honouring the traditional country music that I cherish.”
The album opens with the title track, a tasteful and restrained song that features a catchy yet mature guitar riff, reminiscent of classic Trisha Yearwood. The song explores the inevitability of heartbreak, encapsulating the struggles of trying to hold onto someone who is destined to leave. “You can’t rope the wind, you can’t make him stay,” Ferris sings, accepting the transient nature of love with a sense of maturity and grace. This mid-tempo track, with its classic 90s country sound, speaks to the universal experience of women who have faced similar challenges, making it a poignant and relatable anthem.
‘Are You a Real Cowboy?' shifts the mood to a lively barroom honky-tonk atmosphere, complete with pedal steel and piano. This song tells the story of a woman searching for authenticity in a world full of pretenders. Ferris, alongside guest vocalist and virtuoso fiddle player, Jenee Fleenor, engages in a delightful call and response, adding an original twist to the narrative. As the song progresses, they humorously list the attributes of a “real cowboy,” culminating in a spirited modulation that enhances the playful yet earnest quest for genuine connection.
The energetic ‘Til the Day I Die' is a rocking tribute to the West Coast's influence on country music. Ferris passionately declares her allegiance to the genre with references to iconic figures like Buck Owens. The song's explosive chorus, celebrating country girls who “can survive,” serves as a powerful anthem of endurance and dedication to country music. It's a fist-in-the-air singalong that firmly plants Ferris' flag in the heart of the genre.
Elsewhere, ‘Chilli Pepper Lights' stands out with its unique 80s pop/rock vibe, a departure from Ferris' usual sound. Think 80's Brat Pack movie soundtrack for a touchstone on this track as it evokes the nostalgia of a perfect night out, complete with college kids, beers, and unforgettable moments. With its classic 80s drum sound and programming, Ferris captures the essence of youthful exuberance and the joy of making lasting memories.
The album concludes on a heartfelt note with ‘Build a Life' the only song Ferris wrote on the album and it is a solo write too, underscoring its personal significance. This simple, acoustic track, featuring plaintive guitars, is a love letter to the things that truly matter in life. Ferris sings to her mother about the values she holds dear: old trucks, children, sunshine, and time. It's a heartwarming and graceful song that resonates with its wisdom and sincerity, reminiscent of Trisha Yearwood's soulful style.
‘Rope the Wind' stands as a testament to Amanda Kate Ferris' rich musical heritage and diverse influences. Her journey from singing with her mother to creating her own path in the country music scene underscores her innate talent and dedication to her craft. Ferris' music is a reflection of her life's experiences, carrying forward the legacy of her mother's passion while carving out her unique place in the industry. The album showcases Amanda Kate Ferris' ability to blend personal narratives with universal themes, creating an album, that was mostly written by the cream of what Nashville has to offer in terms of writers, that is both introspective and widely relatable at the same time.
Track List: 1. Rope the Wind 2. Tequila and Jesus 3. Are You a Real Cowboy? 4. Til the Day I Die 5. Chilli Pepper Lights 6. When I Think About You 7. Pedal Steel 8. Baby Don't 9. In This Town 10. Build a Life Record Label: Independent Release Date: July 26th Listen to ‘Rope the Wind' right here.
