For anybody who was disappointed in Dierks Bentley’s last album and singles,  I’m here to tell you that his upcoming album is gonna be a revelation.  Lead single “Up On The Ridge” is also the title track for Dierks’ roots exploration and while he originally wanted to release an album of exclusively bluegrass and a more mainstream record, he and producer Jon Randall Stewart (Jon Randall) have mixed the two together with a heavy roots and acoustic feel. 

As far as lead singles go, “Up On The Ridge” really recalls Dierks’ “What Was I Thinkin” while also allowing the music to stand out more than just serve as a backbeat for Dierks’ lyrics.  The fiddle and mandolins sparkle, the dobro is awesome and Dierks and Angelo serve up lyrics that help create an atmosphere that leads you wanting more and more and more songs just like this.  Alison Krauss provides pristine harmony to the track as well. 

This is down home, roots-y, country, bluegrass-y and just damn good y’all.  If you’re looking for a moody piece of music that gets better with each listen, then go ahead and pick up this single.  Come June 8 you’ll be able to hear the whole album, which may just become one of 2010’s CMA Album of the Year contenders.

You can support Dierks Bentley by purchasing this album at Amazon | iTunes.