Rising Appalachia ‎– Alive LP

Rising Appalachia - Alive (2017)

Rising Appalachia’s Alive is a vibrant and heartfelt live album that captures the raw energy, musical prowess, and deep-rooted activism of the folk and world music duo. Released in 2017, this album showcases sisters Leah and Chloe Smith at their most dynamic, blending traditional Appalachian sounds with global influences, creating a rich tapestry of music that is both soulful and socially conscious. Recorded during various performances, Alive is more than just a live album—it’s a powerful statement of the duo’s commitment to their art and their causes.

The album opens with "Medicine," a track that has become a signature anthem for Rising Appalachia. The live version on Alive is infused with an infectious energy, as the sisters’ harmonies soar over a rhythmic blend of banjo, percussion, and bass. The song’s message of healing and connection resonates deeply, especially when delivered with the palpable enthusiasm of a live audience. It’s a perfect introduction to the album, setting the stage for the journey ahead.

"Scale Down" follows, bringing a slightly more introspective tone. The song’s minimalist arrangement allows the powerful lyrics to take center stage, reflecting on themes of simplicity and sustainability. The live performance enhances the song’s emotional impact, with the audience’s reactions adding a layer of communal experience that can only be captured in a live setting. The interplay between the sisters’ voices and their instruments is intimate and precise, showcasing their deep musical bond.

Throughout Alive, Rising Appalachia seamlessly blends Appalachian folk with elements of world music, from the sultry, blues-infused "Mississippi" to the rhythmically complex "Resilient," which features global percussion influences. These tracks highlight the duo’s ability to transcend genre boundaries, creating a sound that is uniquely their own. The live versions of these songs are vibrant and full of life, capturing the spontaneity and joy of their performances.

One of the standout moments on the album is "Cumberland Gap," a traditional Appalachian tune reimagined by Rising Appalachia. The sisters’ harmonies are hauntingly beautiful, and the live setting brings a sense of immediacy and authenticity to the track. The use of traditional instruments like the banjo and fiddle, combined with the duo’s contemporary sensibilities, creates a bridge between past and present, honoring the roots of the music while making it relevant for today’s audiences.
"River Stay" is another highlight, a meditative and soulful track that invites listeners to reflect on the natural world and their place within it. The song’s gentle melody and lush harmonies are enhanced by the live setting, where the intimacy of the performance draws the listener in, creating a sense of shared experience and connection.

Alive closes with "Swoon," a track that encapsulates the celebratory spirit of Rising Appalachia’s live shows. The song’s upbeat tempo and joyful energy are infectious, leaving the listener with a sense of uplift and inspiration. It’s a fitting conclusion to an album that is as much about the music as it is about the community and values that Rising Appalachia embodies.

Rising Appalachia’s Alive is more than just a live album; it’s a celebration of music’s power to bring people together, to heal, and to inspire change. The album captures the essence of what makes Rising Appalachia such a beloved act—their deep connection to their roots, their commitment to social and environmental causes, and their ability to create music that is both timeless and urgently relevant.

For fans of folk, world music, and socially conscious art, Alive is a must-listen. It’s an album that not only showcases the incredible talents of Leah and Chloe Smith but also invites listeners to be a part of the movement they champion. Alive is a testament to the power of live music to move, inspire, and connect us all.