Album Review: The Redhill Valleys, Travel Well Part 1 and 2

When an album begins with the line “I don't want to dream anymore,” you know you are about to be taken on a ride. Released as a pair of EPs, Hamilton, Ontario’s The Redhill Valleys return with their sophomore album Travel Well, and they do not disappoint. Exploring Americana blended with their own unique brand of heartache, Travel Well takes the listener on a rich and dynamic journey.

On Part 1, the band welcomes the listener with the mournful “Anyone” and establishes the somber tone that reoccurs throughout this half of the album, particularly in “Something About You.” The pace is picked up with a blues fusion in tracks like “If I Didn’t Know You,” “Desperate Times,” and the provocative standout single “Finish Line.” The mix of grunge and melancholy takes shape in the titular track “Travel Well”, while painting the evocative portrait of a person bearing the burden of a heavy heart. 

Shifting into Part 2, the band leans deeper into country roots, opening with the aptly named “Old Country Song” and reocurring in “Lonesome Road” and “Don’t Want To Leave.” In “All on Me,” the musical influences from The Band are quite clear, with a few subtle licks paying homage to “The Weight.” Taking a page out of Lucinda Williams’ book, the listener is also treated to a cover of “I Lost It” which is both respectful to the original while still reflecting The Redhill Valleys’ present sound. The album concludes with “Final Lullabye” which begins as a soft acoustic number that gradually grows into a rich swelling of pure gospel to send the listener home satisfied. 

Imagine a painting that was created by four artists each taking turns passing the brush, yet sharing a common vision. That is the treat of a Redhill Valleys album. In this pair of EPs, the performers have such clear and distinct vocal qualities and songwriting influences, yet they balance each other with a singular voice. From bittersweet ballads to head-bangers delights, Travel Well is a journey well taken.

Travel Well Part 1 was released June 3, 2022.
Travel Well Part 2 was released October 14, 2022.
Listen to them here.