Randy Lee Riviere "Farmhand Blues" Review!

Artist: Randy Lee Riviere

Album: Farmhand Blues

Released: 2025

Artist Website: https://www.randyleeriviere.com/

Randy Lee Riviere is a prolific songwriter rooted deeply in all things American music. Clever lyrics, a miles above average stall of musicians at his fingertips, coupled with Tom Hambridge producing is sure to garner impressive results. Farmhand Blues is his 8th release, including 15 tracks and clocking in at a little over an hour. 

Big On A Bender is a track that jumps out of the speakers as the obvious choice for a single. A gritty vocal and fuzzy guitar conjure images of early ZZ Top and not so smooth room temperature whiskey. The first thing that grabs this writer's ear is how loose the whole thing is, which is meant as a compliment. It has a very Stones like rock and roll approach that is all too rare these days.

The title track, Farmhand Blues has a Georgia Satellites honky tonk influence that never gets old, when done by great players like this. It is pocketed and greasy at every turn. At only 2:33 it is proof that Randy is a disciple of The Beatles approach to songwriting. Keep it simple, get the point across and wrap it up. This little gem has the kind of dirt that water doesn't wash off, which is forever welcomed into the ears of folks who know what this sort of music is supposed to feel like. 

You Ain't No Loving Woman is a standout cut. The Chris Issac like tremolo guitar sets the scene for a lyrically compelling tune with a simple vocal approach that is downright haunting. It is one of the more understated tracks on the album, providing a wonderful balance that shows the depth of composition that Randy Lee Riviere possesses. 

The 70's rock and roll bands are an obvious influence on this album, however there is quite a bit of subtle complexity in his writing which suggests a wide variety of influences, including but not limited to classic rock and roll, blues, folk and everything in between. To sum it up, American music. Randy and the band are executing it at the highest level with heartfelt passion for the music. It has the attitude of Neil Young, presented in a honky tonk band that is clearly a part of the southeastern American music scene. Fans of the harder side of Americana will enjoy the entirety of this fine release.