REVIEW OF “RIDE, BOLDLY RIDE” by ’92 in the Sagebrush / Reviewer: Andre Avanessian
“Ride, Boldly Ride” is a thunderous, conviction-driven anthem that rides with the spirit of adventure, capturing the bold energy of John Wayne himself and the timeless allure of the American frontier. This country rock track is more than just a nod to the iconic actor and his legendary role in El Dorado—it’s a call to action, a rallying cry, and a reflection on the values of courage, unity, and freedom that still resonate in America today. Its mixture of bold country rock energy with subtle folk storytelling creates a dynamic and adventurous feel, while its lyrics speak directly to the heart of the listener. The performances are filled with raw conviction, and the arrangement is crafted to build upon the song’s message of bravery, heroism, and the enduring strength of the American spirit. Overall, “Ride, Boldly Ride” is a deeply patriotic, invigorating track that is both a tribute to the legendary John Wayne and serves as an anthem for perseverance and unity.
Lyrically, “Ride, Boldly Ride” is a rich tapestry of Americana, blending references to John Wayne, Edgar Allan Poe’s “Eldorado,” and the notion of national unity. The opening lines, “O say can you see, by the dawn’s early light,” immediately pull the listener into a familiar, patriotic space, setting the tone for what feels like a modern, yet timeless, call to action. The invocation of John Wayne, a figure synonymous with American heroism, feels natural here, as the singer recalls The Duke’s strength and virtues in a nation that, at times, feels divided. The line “In America you’re free” echoes the ideals of personal liberty that have shaped the American identity, and it’s a rallying cry for anyone feeling the weight of division and uncertainty. The chorus, which repeats the powerful mantra “Ride, boldly ride,” is an emotional centerpiece. It’s a defiant call to stand tall, to keep moving forward, no matter the challenges. There’s a catharsis in this refrain—an almost anthemic quality that resonates with the listener’s own sense of defiance and hope. The lyrics speak to perseverance in the face of adversity: “You can travel the long road, keep going in the night, or you can lay down your hat and join in the fight.” This isn’t just about following in Wayne’s footsteps, it’s about standing up for something larger than oneself, about taking action even when the journey seems insurmountable.
But what’s most striking about “Ride, Boldly Ride” is its willingness to acknowledge the divisions that exist within the country. It’s not a song that blindly ignores the struggles, but rather it challenges the listener to confront them: “Sometimes it seems so impossible, the division runs so deep, we all must unite and keep peace in sight, for love of God and country.” The song turns the introspective moment into a call for unity, urging everyone to remember the ideals that once bound the nation together.
“Ride, Boldly Ride” is an adventurous piece of country rock and I can see it mainly appealing to fans of the country rock genre.
About the Reviewer:
Andre Avanessian is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K.
