Brand new CD, CHHR2 on July 29, 2008 that debuted at #3 on Billboard's Bluegrass Top 50 Album Chart. The first single, I Can Go Back Anytime made its debut on Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine's Top 30 Single Chart (Oct 08).
Carrie Hassler & Hard Rain were chosen by the International Bluegrass Music Association as a2007 Showcase performer. This year the band will perform at the 2008 IBMA Fan Fest during the World of Bluegrass that takes place in Nashville Sept 29-Oct 5, 2008. Carrie has also been chosen as an awards presenter at the 2008 IBMA Awards Show.
Carrie has been influenced by a wide range of talents including Sheri Easter, a gospel singer who tinged her music with some bluegrass sounds along with the gospel message; Etta James, Patsy Cline, Dale Ann Bradley and Alison Krauss. "To this day, I remember the people I looked up to and I hope to make the same kind of mark in lives as these women did in mine," said Carrie.
"Holy smoke! Hassler's latest-no-holds-bared release demonstrates remarkable talent. From her blistering arrangement of "One Way Track To Nowhere" to an affective "Turn The Page," Hassler is at the top of her game." - Bob Mitchell, Radio Bluegrass International
“This is a top-notch bluegrass band, an Alison Krauss on high-octane gas. While some of their their songs (Country Strong, Seven Miles to Wichita) come to mind wouldn't feel out of place on a say, a Carrie Underwood, Martina McBride or even Faith Hill album, this is a kick-tail bluegrass band with incredible instrumentalists on fiddle, banjo, Dobro and mandolin. All led by Hassler's sweet and strong classic country voice." - Mac McDonald, Monterey, CA - The Herald
"I Can Go Back Anytime is a 'homerun' for Carrie Hassler & Hard Rain! Carrie continues to impress me with her talents!" ~CINDY BAUCOM, KNEE-DEEP IN BLUEGRASS
“From the hard drivin’ bluegrass cuts to the wonder ballads, they all should be monster hits.” – Clyde Scott, Bluegrass Radio.org
“If this ain’t a hit, I quit!” – Terry Herd – Bluegrass Radio Network
“Carrie Hassler & Hard Rain’s new single release ‘I Can Go Back Anytime’ takes us back only a short time ago – when she was brand spankin’ new voice/band and wowing the skeptical bluegrass crowds with her powerful vocals and the meticulously perfect vibes of Hard Rain. We were bowled over by the top shelf image and sound that they had, when we felt the first few droplets of Hard Rain’s many talents. WOW – they certainly are thrilling folks again, with a brand new wonderful song! She can’“GO BACK WITH US ANYTIME’ and she knows it! Take us where you will, Carrie Hassler & Hard Rain!!! We’re along for the duration!” – Gracie Muldoon, Worldwidebluegrass.com
