Music

Flatland Cavalry Redefine Country Cool at Red Rocks

On the final night of their Flatland Forever Tour at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado, the dynamic country-Americana powerhouse Flatland Cavalry reminded everyone why they’re one of the most intriguing and genre-fusing bands on the rise. Led by vocalist Cleto Cordero, the group connects with their audience the moment they step onto the stage—bringing a cool, distinctive flair to their country roots.

With nearly 10,000 fans in attendance, Flatland kept their diehard crowd captivated and gleeful—even in the midst of the dry autumn winds rolling through Colorado. They opened the show with upbeat hits from their Flatland Forever album—Some Things Never Change, Gettin’ By, and One I Want—tracks that featured fiery solos from bassist Jonathan Saenz and violinist Wesley Hall. Paired with Jason Albers’ pounding drums and Cordero’s enchanting vocals, concertgoers were rocking out—country style.

Flatland strays far from your typical country ensemble. Midway through, they shifted gears for an intimate acoustic set, with Cordero urging the crowd to take a seat and really listen. The moment highlighted the raw vulnerability in their lyrics—it felt as if Cordero was speaking directly to each person in the audience. There’s a tangible sense of community with Flatland—the magic of their shows is built on connection, not ego.

The energy surged back with a mesmerizing cover of Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide” that had everyone singing along. They closed with a roaring performance of their hit A Life Where We Work Out, featuring musician—and Cordero’s wife—Kaitlin Butts. It was the perfect full-circle moment to encapsulate the night.

Words by Tia Sciarrotta