Every so often, an artist comes along who makes you rethink the confines of genre. Jacob Rice is just such a musician. With the release of his newest EP, “Open Tabs at Empty Bars”, Rice serves up a compelling blend of country tradition and contemporary pop vibrancy that has become his signature sound.
From the opening track “Float To”, the listener is immediately imbued with a feeling of summer. An almost preternatural ability to draw in listeners with catchy, sun-drenched melodies is a hallmark of Rice’s work. But don’t be fooled by the lightness; there’s a significant depth to his craft, and his development as a songwriter is particularly apparent in tracks such as “Mean It”. He masterfully pairs euphoric pop with country traditions, striking a balance between delivering considered, weighty lyrics and maintaining an anthemic, feel-good vibe.
“5 O’Clock Shadow” injects rock groove into the record, bringing a pop infectiousness that’s hard to resist. It’s followed by “Hurt People”, a soul-searching number brimming with raw honesty and heartache. Finally, “Picture This” closes the EP with a flourish, a country tune that seamlessly transcends its genre to court a broader audience. Jacob Rice seems to be forging a path towards a promising future, comfortably hopping genres and defying expectations with aplomb.
Influenced by a wide array of artists, from Train and Old Dominion to Bruno Mars and Billy Currington, Rice’s music is a melodic potpourri that captivates the listener. These bouncy tunes, replete with skillfully crafted hooks, are sure to have music lovers singing along. The Middle Tennessee-based musician has nestled himself in the heart of the Nashville music scene, winning over audiences at legendary venues and establishing songwriting partnerships with rising stars in country music.
His performances at the 2023 Key West Songwriter’s Festival and accolades such as “Artist to Watch” by The Listening Room Cafe, and “Rising Talent” by the prestigious Bluebird Cafe, paint a vivid picture of his undeniable talent. His feature on Spotify’s “New Music Nashville” and “Fresh Finds Country” playlists, coupled with recognition on Nashville’s Radio SoBro and Vermont Public Radio, are only further testament to his blossoming career.
The collaboration with rising producer, James Sinclair-Stott, for his debut EP “Whatever Floats Your Boat” in August 2022 set the stage for Rice’s unique sound. His recent release, “Open Tabs at Empty Bars”, continues to showcase his ability to fuse elements from different genres to create a distinctive and exciting musical experience.
The EP is not just a collection of tracks; it is an audacious exploration of Jacob Rice’s creative boundaries, narrating stories of life, love, and everything in between. His songs come straight from the heart, capturing a multitude of emotions, feelings, and moments, resonating with anyone who has ever had an open tab at an empty bar.
This musical journey that Jacob Rice is undertaking is, above all, genuine. His passion for his craft and the authenticity of his lyrics have allowed him to make significant strides in a short time. There is no question that Rice is on the rise, pushing the boundaries of country music one song at a time.
To catch a glimpse of the Jacob Rice musical revolution, check out the “Open Tabs at Empty Bars” EP on Spotify or visit his website. Get ready to immerse yourself in a sound that’s familiar, yet entirely novel — a testament to the musical prowess of Jacob Rice.
