The Rifters – The Enchanted World (Howlin’ Dog Records, 2023)
The Rifters, a talented trio hailing from northern New Mexico, have recently released their seventh album, titled “The Enchanted World,” under Howlin’ Dog Records. Known for their distinctive sound characterized by rhythmic acoustic-based music and remarkable musicianship, the Rifters’ music echoes the mesmerizing landscape of the high desert land of mountains, mesas, valleys, and canyons they call home.
The album comprises 14 tracks, ten of which are original compositions or co-written. It features several songs that pay homage to the ranching and western lifestyle, celebrating its idiosyncrasies, challenges, and natural beauty. The songs also explore many aspects of our daily lives, including the difficulties of maturing, environmental awareness, and financial struggles. Nonetheless, throughout the album, a theme of wonder and appreciation for the remarkable and enchanted world we inhabit runs consistently.
Overall, “The Enchanted World” is a captivating and finely crafted roots album from the American southwest that not only exhibits the Rifters’ exceptional talent and unique sound, but also presents a profound reflection on the ranching and western lifestyle and the beauty of the natural world. It also inspires contemplation on the challenges of everyday life and the wonder and gratitude that we can feel for our existence in this truly enchanted world.
Buy The Enchanted World
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has been writing about world music for many years. He founded the websites worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. Angel is also co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart.
Angel has also produced and remastered world music studio albums and compilations for labels such as Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, and Music of the World.
