One Sharp Bladen

Ride That River (River Road Records)

Rusty Bladen

By David Lilly

It was the very late 20^th century. The location was Court Avenue in Jeffersonville, Ind. The occasion was a celebration, though whether a local Mardi Gras or national holiday (or both) I don't recall. Strolling through the revelry, I heard music and lyrics written by John Fogerty blaring through the air and it sounded great. I thought, "Wow, these guys are really good."

It was obviously not Fogerty so I checked out who it was. Turned out to be Rusty Bladen. That seemed like a clever name and I figured the band had invented it. I recognized the next song as one I'd always hated on the radio. I still can't explain why, but I dug Rusty Bladen's version. Needless to say, this is a good live unit. They're not so bad in the studio either, as you'll find out by listening to the newest recording, the Ride That River EP.

Without giving everything away, this disc features two Bladen originals. "Ride that River" is the Official Theme Song of the Madison Regatta. There's also a cover of Hoyt Axton's "Never Been to Spain" that gives the Three Dog Night version a run for its money. Speaking of money, this three-song disc is well worth the cost. Just watch it, though, cause you'll probably want more.

For everything you want to know about Rusty Bladen and then some, visit www.rustybladen.com