‘Hi-Line’ is the debut long-player from Denver based musician Amberly Chalberg. A guitar-based, Alt-Country record that shows a passion for songwriting and an understanding of deep emotive issues that many established artists often struggle to reach.
The long-lasting effects that alcohol and neglect can have on childhood are addressed on ‘Tell Me We’re Gonna Make It’, while ‘Family’s Just A Word’ explores the divisions caused when monetary gain splits family loyalties. As Chalberg explains:
The album is a collection of stories about relationships, whether taking them for granted, speaking the hard truth, or apologizing when we’re wrong. Hi-Line is a reminder that our decisions have consequences.
Throughout the record, there are hints of the grittier sounds of artists such as Sturgill Simpson, Brandi Carlile, and Bonnie Raitt. Choosing to work with Americana musician and producer Todd Adelman, Chalberg recorded the album using analogue equipment, resulting in a live sound that is awash with the warmth of melodic, valve-amped guitars.
‘Little Bit Country’ is a good-time, tongue in cheek, radio-friendly rocker that doesn’t take the genre too seriously, and sounds like it should be belting out at full volume from checked shirt filled barroom jukeboxes everywhere. ‘Crazy ‘Bout You’ is a gentle country shuffle full of memorable slide guitar – a classic break up song where the protagonist is far from ready to give up.
‘Hi-Line’ is a good guitar-driven, Alt-Country record illustrating Chalberg’s songwriting skills. It explores timeless themes in a way that is refreshingly honest, brutal, and vulgar… much like life itself.