Kim Richey: Rise : Music Reviews : Rolling Stone

Album Reviews

Kim Richey made her name in as a hitmaking Nashville songwriter, but her fourth solo release, Rise, is about as far from contemporary country as you can get. Teaming with producer Bill Bottrell, Richey has created an album of stunning pop rock, its poetic lyrics awash in a subtle sonic palette of exotica. Infused with an elegant melancholy, songs such as "Fading," "Without You," "Hard to Say Goodbye" and "Reel Me In" find Richey's lovely soprano soaring gracefully while grieving. The uplifting "No Judges" has a Middle Eastern feel, and the mournful "A Place Called Home" hurts almost as much as a Townes Van Zandt song. Upon repeated listenings, Rise becomes almost intoxicating, enveloping the listener with its heavenly perfume.

HOLLY GEORGE-WARREN
(RS 915 – February 6, 2003)