Robbie Rapids dives back into original territory with Class 2 Rapids, a 14-track album that flows as its name suggests—sometimes smooth, sometimes rough, but always moving forward. Based in Atlanta, Rapids pulls from classic rock at the core, then lets pop, folk, alt-country, metal, and swamp rock swirl around it without ever worrying about neat labels. Written and recorded over two years with a wide circle of collaborators, the album is in high spirits, even when the playing is tight.
It kicks off with “Hang Loose,” all revving guitars, thumping drums, and bustling cymbals. Robbie’s vocal comes in energetic and catchy, delivering lines like “If life doesn’t go your way, you gotta find a different way,” setting the album’s tone early: stressed-out reality meets stubborn optimism. A few tracks later, “Big Bam Boom” cranks the amps higher, channeling glam rock swagger with grinding guitars, punchy drums, and a sharp, charismatic voice that nods knowingly to Bowie and T. Rex.
Midway through, the album loosens its grip and leans into storytelling and memory. “Fishing the River” is a swamp-rock recollection of teenage fishing trips on Michigan’s Pere Marquette River. It opens like a folk tune, then rolls forward as the drums kick in and guitars riff with muddy warmth. Robbie’s rich, luscious voice guides the narrative with humor, openly admitting his lack of fishing skills while celebrating camaraderie, nature, and the joy of just being there. The guitar solo in the bridge drifts and bends like a lazy current, pulling you right into the scene.
By the time you reach the final track, “Dream Away – Original,” things wind down into a nostalgic haze. Gritty, relaxed guitar lines and soft beats carry a yearning vocal that longs for simpler, happier days, singing, “Just take my hand and go with me where we will be free in our world.” It’s a gentle landing after a wide-ranging journey.
Class 2 Rapids doesn’t try to be perfect or trendy. Instead, it’s a Gen X guitar rocker telling stories, chasing sounds where they naturally lead, and inviting you along for the ride—no life jacket required.
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Review by: Naomi Joan