Let me start by writing "I love male vocal music." The Texas Tenors are right up my alley. This recording is one I have fallen in love with.

I think that opening with Writing's on the Wall was an excellent choice. From the James Bond movie Spectre, it sets the theme of risking everything for love or a better life. Bond music is always sweeping, so it suits the Tenors' voices and style.

The title song Rise really spoke to me. It reminds us that life and time go on and that we all need to seize the day and live. It is an old message, but one that bears repeating. Another original song is the ballad I Don't Want to Let You Go. The final one is the patriotic Wheels.

The only repeat song is the combined version of Thank God I'm a Country Boy/Take Me Home, Country Roads. The two songs were on their Live CD. I like having the studio version of these songs. (The bonus song Sometimes I Dream is on Country Roots: Classical Sound; this version is live.)

It wouldn't be The Texas Tenors without a touch of religion and patriotism. Amazing Grace and the familiar God Bless America fit the bill.

There is no need to buy the CD over buying the MP3 download. The CD liner has some credits; the back is a list of songs.

I loved the whole CD. If you enjoy The Texas Tenors, you'll enjoy this recording. It would be a good introduction to the group with covers of popular songs such as Desperado, You've Lost that Loving Feelin', and Galveston. ( )