Hailing from the Ozarks in Missouri, Casey Freeland comes from a bluegrass family which goes back generations. Through years of touring with artists such as Dale Ann Bradley and Valerie Smith, to leading her own band, Casey and the Atta Boys, she has continually honed her artistry. Casey and the Atta Boys’ third release, Now I’m Free, is a collection of original material alongside unexpected musical interpretations.
The opening track, Little Bluebird, by Donna Hughes, starts things off on a cheerful note talking about the simple joys and pleasures brought to life by one of nature’s beautiful creatures. Along with Casey on upright bass and lead vocals, the Atta Boys consist of Kelly Freeland on guitar and vocals, Andrew Morton on fiddle and vocals, Becca Sein on mandolin and vocals, and Justin George on banjo and vocals.
The following track, Blue Sky, was popularized by the Allman Brothers Band in the early 1970s. Written by Allmans’ guitarist Dickey Betts, this song works surprisingly well in the bluegrass vein, as does the Marshall Tucker Band’s Fire on the Mountain.
Devil’s Den by Josh Miller, Jim VanCleve and Craig Market, tells a captivating tale, one filled with lots of spooky imagery, particularly “the dark side of the mountain where the witches dance” and “the grove of trees in the dead of autumn.’ Miller County Bicycle Heist by Becca Sein also tells a story as it’s based on a true event of young children stealing bikes, dismantling them, and selling them for parts.
One of the true standouts on this project is Free. Written by Bobby Nicholas, this song tells of getting back on your feet and moving on after a difficult and draining romantic relationship. It carries a strong message of hope and perseverance.
Now I’m Free is an excellent collection from start to finish. With great selections ranging from original material to favorites outside the bluegrass realm, this album displays Casey and the Atta Boys’ overall growth and chemistry as a unit.
