The Kody Norris Show Reaches New Heights with “Highfalutin Hillbilly”: A Masterclass in Traditional Bluegrass with a Modern Kick
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
The Kody Norris Show has always been a force to be reckoned with in the bluegrass world, known for their vibrant stage presence, dedication to tradition, and a healthy dose of showmanship. With their latest album, Highfalutin Hillbilly, they not only maintain their established reputation but elevate it, delivering an album that is at once a confident assertion of their musical prowess and a pure, unadulterated joy to experience. This isn’t just another bluegrass record; it’s a testament to a band truly firing on all cylinders, demonstrating a creative peak that promises even greater things to come.
From the moment the needle drops (or the play button is pressed, for the modern listener), Highfalutin Hillbilly immediately establishes its energetic tone. The album kicks off with the high-octane “The Auctioneer,” a perfect opener that showcases the band’s razor-sharp picking and their ability to infuse classic themes with an infectious drive. This initial burst of energy is sustained throughout, leading seamlessly into the driving closer, “Ramblin’ Around,” which leaves the listener with a lingering sense of satisfaction and a desire for more.
What truly sets Highfalutin Hillbilly apart is its masterful blend of sharp instrumentation, carefully curated classic covers, and compelling original songs. The Kody Norris Show, comprised of Kody Norris himself, Mary Rachel Nalley-Norris, Josiah Tyree, and Josiah Passmore, demonstrates a cohesion and musical telepathy that is both impressive and endearing. Their signature mix of tradition, humor, and heart shines through in every track, making for a listening experience that is as authentic as it is entertaining.
Among the many standout moments, several tracks deserve particular recognition. Mary Rachel Nalley-Norris delivers a truly hard-hitting performance on her original heartbreak song, “Blue Ain’t the Word.” Her vocals convey a raw emotion that resonates deeply, proving her not only as a formidable fiddle player but also a compelling songwriter. The album also features an absolutely infectious take on Tanya Tucker’s 1970s hit, “San Antonio Stroll,” made even more special with the addition of members from the acclaimed all-female group Sister Sadie. This collaboration is a testament to The Kody Norris Show’s ability to seamlessly integrate other talents while maintaining their own distinct sound.
For fans of traditional bluegrass, the fiery rendition of Jimmy Martin’s “Tennessee” is a definite highlight, showcasing the band’s reverence for the genre’s pioneers while injecting their own dynamic energy. But it’s not all serious introspection and classic homages; The Kody Norris Show knows how to have fun, and their playful spin on “Mississippi Squirrel Revival” is a prime example. This track is packed with the band’s signature personality and humor, offering a lighthearted yet skillfully executed moment that encapsulates their ability to entertain on multiple levels.
Indeed, Highfalutin Hillbilly is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a joyful celebration of everything fans have come to love about The Kody Norris Show. The polish of the production, combined with the undeniable personality emanating from each performance, creates an album that feels both meticulously crafted and genuinely spontaneous. As Mark Freeman, President of Rebel Records, aptly puts it, “Every aspect of their act has been elevated — from razor-sharp song selection and masterful instrumentation to their dazzling black-and-gold stage attire — making this album a bold statement of their rising momentum in the bluegrass world.”
This elevation is palpable throughout Highfalutin Hillbilly. The album feels like a confident stride forward for a band that has found its sweet spot, honing their craft and amplifying their unique voice. It’s an album that will undoubtedly resonate with long-time fans and serves as an excellent introduction for those new to The Kody Norris Show’s vibrant and engaging world. In a genre often rooted in tradition, Highfalutin Hillbilly manages to honor its roots while pushing forward with fresh energy and undeniable charm, solidifying The Kody Norris Show’s position as one of the most confident and entertaining acts in bluegrass today.