Ryan Simpson: Press

Out of the formula-driven humdrum of Nashville comes a bright new sound on the pop horizon, from Ryan Simpson. His boy-next-door looks belie the feeling and depth of the promising music on the four song debut EP, Portrait Four, co-written with producer Frank Goodman. "I'm Gone" embodies the coming of age experience of someone leaving their hometown. "Strawberry Shake" reveals a chance encounter between young romantics at a soda shop, it might just be the feel good anthem of summer 2005. "I Work Harder When It Hurts" deals with the angst of long distance relationship. The closer, "Must Be Doing Something Wrong" is a portrait of restless youth, looking for a place to land, after the party's over.

Recorded in Puremusic Studios by Dan Spomer with some of Nashville's eclectic best, Portrait Four has a classic sound that will appeal to a wide audience. It's available now, from www.ryansimpson.net and from CDBaby.com.

Music That Crosses Generations and Genres:

Ryan Simpson is billed as a pop artist, but he is somewhat of an enigma. His lyrics are so basic, so close to the soul, they reach across generations and genres. Although Ryan was only a baby in the 70’s, “Strawberry Shake” recaptures the mood of a 1970’s summer love through a chance encounter at the soda shop. Soda shops have almost been replaced by Starbucks, but the soda shop crowd of the 70’s and the 21st century patrons of coffee shops can easily share this musical moment that transcends time. “Strawberry Shake” is the most radio friendly song on the EP and will stir memories of earlier romances. The remainder of the EP is a bit more earthy. “I’m Gone” deals with disillusionment with relationships and escaping big city pressures in search of a simpler life. A muted driving guitar in the second verse mesmerizes the listener. With an excellent mix of blues guitar and organ, producer Frank Goodman, pulls us into Ryan’s mind as he tries to keep his girl happy while taking a toll on his own soul in “I Work Harder When It Hurts”. Ryan completes the EP with “I Must Be Doing Something Wrong” an autobiographical spin through the Southeastern US trying to turn a pocket full of rhymes into the fulfillment of his dreams. Much of our music today deals with violence, drugs and ideas on the fringe of mainstream society. This disc represents a new direction of music that deals with emotions we all can share, regardless of our age or musical preferences. It should be added to your collection.

Impressive, genuine and gratifying

I'd classify myself as somewhat of a music snob, however these particular songs have won me over. Not to sound trite, but the lyrics take me back to places I've never been but are so familiar. While Strawberry Shake has its own kind of upbeat pop sound, it completes the puzzle of the other three songs and makes the EP a celebration of emotion, life, love and longing. My personal favorite, I'm Gone, seems to typify the artist's quest (like that of all of us) to arrive at that one place in time and location where he ultimately belongs. I think Ryan Simpson is right about there.