Colebrook Road’s ‘That Summer’: A High-Lonesome Ode to Fleeting Seasons
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Artist: Colebrook Road Track: “That Summer” Genre: Bluegrass / Americana Origin: South Central Pennsylvania
Hailing from the fertile music grounds of South Central Pennsylvania, Colebrook Road has cemented its reputation as a band committed to the integrity of traditional bluegrass while infusing it with contemporary storytelling energy. Their single, “That Summer,” is a brilliant demonstration of this balance, delivering a track that is as technically dazzling as it is emotionally resonant.
The Engine of Nostalgia
“That Summer” is not a mournful ballad, but a vibrant, driving machine built on tight instrumental precision. The song immediately launches into a classic bluegrass gallop, driven relentlessly by the combined forces of the upright bass (establishing the pocket) and the rhythm guitar. What defines Colebrook Road’s sound—and this track in particular—are the intricate interplay and instrumental breaks.
The banjo and mandolin leads are sharp and clean, weaving around a melody that feels instantly familiar, like a rediscovered memory. The fiddle work is especially noteworthy, providing the quintessential “high-lonesome” sound that keeps the song firmly rooted in the Appalachian tradition, even as the tempo pushes into modern Americana territory. The production is bright and crisp, ensuring every pull-off, chop, and harmony layer is heard with sparkling clarity.
Lyrical and Vocal Resonance
Lyrically, “That Summer” explores the bittersweet nature of seasonal memory, perfectly aligning the fast-paced music with the fleeting quality of time. The lyrics evoke classic, universal summer imagery—dusty roads, fireflies, and the intoxicating, dizzying feeling of youth and freedom.
The vocal arrangement is superb, relying on close, multi-part harmonies that are the hallmark of elite bluegrass. The lead vocal carries a wistful, reflective quality, creating an effective emotional contrast with the song’s energetic pace. This juxtaposition—joyful music paired with themes of yearning and loss—is the cornerstone of powerful songwriting, making “That Summer” an immediately captivating listen.
“That Summer” is a standout track that proves Colebrook Road’s mastery of their genre. It’s an essential addition to any bluegrass playlist and a perfect entry point for listeners who appreciate expert musicianship fused with genuine, heartfelt storytelling. The band doesn’t just play bluegrass; they live in the memories the music creates.