There’s something soothing about a wholesome country band and The Ruta Beggars certainly scratch that itch. Ever-Changing is a warm, bubbly and certainly “ever-changing” record that offers a classic country and folk essence. “Papa’s Got Ahold of the Wine” is full of beautiful vocal harmonies, twangy acoustic guitar and even some spectacularly beautiful violin flourishes. There’s something so bare-bones and yet so musically dense about this opening track. That sentiment applies to the entire album but The Ruta Beggars never get stuck in a rut.
“Red Carpet” makes the eclectic capabilities of this band abundantly clear. It’s a slightly slower and more somber track and it demonstrates that The Ruta Beggars knows how to compose and perform a pretty ballad, as well as a lively country belter. Again, the vocal harmonies are stunning on this tune. I was particularly mesmerized by the quickly-strummed guitar and banjo passages. That, coupled with a transfixing melody, is what makes this such a wonderful song.
“Ever-Changing Love” picks up the pace, offering some of the most mins-blowing guitar passages on the album. When acoustic guitar and banjo can sizzle just as ferociously as electric guitar in a rock anthem, that really is saying something about the sheer talent of a musical group. And the violin is also bewilderingly fast-paced on this track. I don’t know quite how they manage it, but these musicians are breathtakingly-skilled speed demons.
My favorite ballad on the entire release might be “Hold Me Close.” It’s a beautiful melody, made all the more powerful by the wonderful vocal duets between the male and female vocalists. But this band doesn’t just offer fantastic songwriting. They’re not content with simply churning out a beautiful melody. They also have to showcase their fantastic instrumental abilities. The violin solo on this track is another epic display of talent. The guitar-work, additionally, is sublime; I’m not somebody who really listens to country music, but The Ruta Beggars is a collective that would certainly give me cause to dip my toe farther into this genre.
Ever-Changing is an impressive album. There’s no reason to mince words. This is a group of ultra-talented people. Some musicians are skilled instrumentalists, and some musicians are skilled songwriters. The Ruta Beggars is full of musicians who cover both bases. This album is definitely worth your time.
ABOUT THE BAND:
The Ruta Beggars infuse traditional bluegrass and early swing to create a timeless act filled with intricate yet smooth vocal harmonies, fiery instrumentals and plenty of fun. They have been praised for their creative yet tasteful arrangements and charming performances.
The Ruta Beggars are comprised of Micah Nicol (guitar), Sofia Chiarandini (fiddle), Ariel Wyner (mandolin), and Trevin Nelson (banjo).
They were featured on 2018 IBMA broadcaster of the year nominee Steve Martin’s Unreal Bluegrass radio show after their performance with Tony Trischka at Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival 2018. In October of 2019, The Ruta Beggars served as Lyle Lovett‘s opening band; an artist’s exception made for his typical “no openers” policy.
The Ruta Beggars won Thomas Point Bluegrass Festival’s Band Competition in 2019 to join the ranks of bands like Twisted Pine, The Lonely Heartstring Band and Beg, Steal or Borrow.
The Ruta Beggars‘ most recent release The Ruta Beggars – EP was recorded in Micah Nicol and Ariel Wyner‘s living room with couches in the corners, blankets on every wall and Noah Harrington on bass.
Tiny Dorm Sessions was filmed and recorded entirely under a bunk bed in Berklee College of music for the Tiny Dorm Concert YouTube Series. It starts with an original tune The Trains Don’t Run No More (In Boston)
Follow The Ruta Beggars:
Spotify – YouTube – Facebook – Twitter – Instagram – TikTok – Website