Review by Allan Morel & Staff
R.W. Roldan keeps things simple and pure in his song “The Color Of.” The song opens with bouncy, strummed chords on acoustic guitar. As Roldan enters for the first verse, the soft hum of strings gently work their way into the mix, adding a smooth legato section to counteract the more punchy rhythms of the guitar and voice. The song gradually builds with the addition of sparse percussion and bass as it moves towards the chorus. As the song continues to weave between verse and chorus, an instrumental break makes its way into the arrangement before the last hoorah of the final chorus.
In “The Color Of,” Roldan addresses the racial biases of society challenging listeners to question why people would think this way through anecdotal lines of his verses.
“I was born in the back seat, of a 41 Packard around Texas. Where me mom and pop, would roll from field to farm. I thought my brothers was brown, a cause they worked the fields right next to us. But now my brothers are runnin' cause they think we mean 'em some harm."
With the entrance of the chorus, the vocals become layered in different voices sending a strong message of unity.
“The Color Of’ features R.W. Roldan on guitar and lead vocals, Max Allyn on guitar, keys, percussion, backing vox and production, Jenna Blake (backing vox), and Eamon Rylan on the pedal steel, lap, and lead guitar. It is off his latest album Can You Feel This as well as BWH’s On Peace Street, Vol. 1.
R.W. Roldan is always keeps his eye’s and heart open for new inspirations to write meaningful songs. In "The Color Of," he took a risk. The subject matter - racism - is a difficult topic to tackle and this review-writer believes we need to open the door and start conversations. This is exactly what Roldan has accomplished through his song. "The Color Of" is one person's experience and although it be everyone's experience - every voice counts and makes a difference. Roldan is an exceptional songwriter with an exceptional message.
"Song For Peace" is featured on BWH Music Group’s new release, ‘On Peace Street, Vol. One.’ The compilation album is a collection of 19 original songs in various genres by today's best independent artists and songwriters. Sharing songs about peace and social justice, the artist's songs will ultimately remind you of the importance of peace, fairness, love and unity. Filled with meaningful lyrics and exceptional music, this playlist is an example of how music can influence, and even change, people, movements, and society. Visit BWH Music Group Album Release Page for more information.
About RW Roldan
R.W. (Ray William) Roldan grew up listening to Elvis, Hank Williams, Rick Nelson, Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard and George Jones and has fond memories of his grandfather, a drummer, telling him stories and playing Jim Croce and James Taylor for him.
R.W. had been recording under various band monikers since emerging with his debut album In California Country in 2006. After years of leading the popular ensembles Swing Samurai and Broke Fence (and recording under those names), Roldan, has just released Can You Feel This. Teaming with engineer/producer Max Allyn of The Outpost, the13 soulful tracks provide a deeply emotional experience.
Roldan has recorded with famed musicians like Doug Pettibone (Lucinda Williams), John J.T. Thomas (Bruce Hornsby), Rick Shea (Dave Alvin, Rosie Perez), Bruce Watson (Rod Stewart), Chuck Kavoorus, and Brad Cobb (Tori Amos), David Chamberlain (Roy Buchanan, Manhattan Transfer). Ray's band also includes Mark Hayes (lead guitar) and Luke Hayes (drums).
Roldan's two Swing Samurai albums have received extensive airplay throughout the U.S., Europe, Asia and Australia, and songs from those were featured on compilations with greats like Tim McGraw, Billy Yates and The Bellamy Brothers. In addition, Roldan’s tunes have been top finalists in numerous Song of the Year competitions and in 2007, he won “Top 25 songs CD” for IndieMusiccom. The following year, he scored eleven finalist nominations for “Man of Steel” through the FameGame Effigy Awards.
For more information, please Visit R.W. Roldan's website.
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