The album's centrepiece and title track was performed at the 50th anniversary of the 1965 Freedom Ride, which had been led by the political activist Charles Perkins.[1]
Cassar-Daley supported the album with a national tour commencing in Swan Hill on 30 April and concluding in Tweed Heads on 14 November 2015.[2]
Everett True from Guardian Australia said "Freedom Ride is full of songs about trucking, drinking, women, wide open spaces and red dirt – with the odd tribute to his children thrown in." adding "it's a sprawling, good-natured affair."[1]
Polly Coufos from The Australian said "With a team of co-writers, Cassar-Daley has crafted a dozen tales cut from his life and imagination. From heartfelt songs about his grandfather and daughter to rowdy rockers, he covers all bases." She said the title track was the album's most important song saying "In part a tribute to Charles Perkins, the title track traces a journey by a group of students in 1965 to address the inequality facing our indigenous population. It does not dwell on the detail, rather leaving the focus on its rousing chorus. A song for all Australians, it speaks of our past while filled with hope for our future."[5]
John Nutting said "Freedom Ride is his “career” album. Its credible, sincere, insightful, well produced and delivers its message in a subtle but entertaining way". Daily Telegraph said "Evenly balanced between uplifting celebration of an Australian spirit and the darker human condition, it's a complete record"[6]
