High-Altitude Hope: Route 3 Captures Lightning in a Bottle with “Mile High In Denver”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
In the hallowed halls of Nashville’s legendary Station Inn, there is a specific kind of magic that occurs when the wood of a mandolin meets the history of the room. It was within this iconic venue, during its 50th-anniversary celebration, that the award-winning bluegrass outfit Route 3 recorded their latest triumph. Their new radio single, “Mile High In Denver,” is now available on all digital and streaming platforms, serving as the emotional anchor of their career-defining live album, The Best of Route 3: Live at The Station Inn.
A Masterclass in Resilience and Rhythm
While bluegrass often leans into the “lonesome” side of heartbreak, “Mile High In Denver” offers a refreshing pivot toward empowerment. Co-written by band members Greg Potter and Jason Jordan, the track is a compelling exploration of the “courage to begin again.”
The song navigates the complexities of moving forward after a difficult chapter, using the imagery of high altitudes and new horizons to symbolize personal growth. Key highlights of the performance include:
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The “Live” Edge: Because this was recorded during a SOLD OUT show, the track possesses a raw, visceral energy that studio recordings often struggle to replicate.
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Sophisticated Songwriting: Jordan and Potter have crafted a narrative that is relatable to anyone who has had to find strength in letting go.
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Tight-Knit Instrumentation: The interplay between the mandolin, banjo, and guitar is telepathic, showcasing a band that has spent years honing their collective “pulse.”
The Station Inn Sessions
The single is part of a larger live collection that captures Route 3 at the peak of their powers. Recorded in November 2024, the album features the core lineup of Jason Jordan (guitar, vocals), Doug Clifton (bass, vocals), Greg Potter (mandolin, vocals), and Janice Martin (banjo, vocals).
Adding a layer of historical significance to the recording is special guest and Station Inn owner Joshua Ulbrich, who contributes masterful dobro work to the set. The album serves as a “greatest hits” of sorts, featuring fan favorites from their Losing Time and Just Believe projects, alongside standout originals like “Captain.”
Artist Spotlight: The Rise of Route 3
Hailing from Southwest Missouri, Route 3 has rapidly ascended from regional favorites to a powerhouse on the national bluegrass circuit. Their sound is a bridge between the genre’s traditional roots and a modern, high-energy approach that appeals to a broad demographic of acoustic music lovers.
Key Career Milestones:
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Chart-Toppers: Their single “Cartersville” reached the Top 5 on the Bluegrass Today chart, while the title track of their 2024 studio album, Just Believe, soared to No. 1 on the Bluegrass Today Weekly Gospel Airplay Chart.
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Award Winners: The group was previously honored as the Arkansas Country Music Awards’ (ACMA) Bluegrass Artist of the Year.
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Festival Staples: Route 3 has become a mainstay at leading festivals across the Midwest and South, known for their polished vocal harmonies and instrumental precision.
“Mile High In Denver” is more than just a breakup song; it is a musical testimony to Route 3’s values—resilience, craftsmanship, and the belief that the best views are found after the toughest climbs.