America is full of musicians that only a select, privileged few have ever heard of. Matthew Ryan is one such musician, praised by his cult fans and more successful colleagues while never becoming a huge star. 'Hold On Firefly' / 'Jane, I Still Feel The Same' is a double A-side and first release from Ryan's eleventh album Matthew Ryan vs. The Silver State.
'Hold On Firefly' opens with a tangle of guitars and building drums before Ryan's rasp enters the fray. We are quickly into the upbeat, Dylan-esque chorus: "Hold on to me, hold on to me. You're gonna feel better. You're just afraid to leave". It is a wonderful slice of Springsteen slide-guitar Americana but within the song is a heartbreaking story. "Sugar gets bitter. She knows to watch her tongue. That bastard never hit her in front of anyone". Ryan says volumes with very few words: the mark of a good songwriter.
'Jane, I Still Feel The Same' could not be more different. The song is slower, subdued and much more comfortable for Ryan and his earthy voice; very reminiscent of Johnny Bramwell (I Am Kloot). The first half of this gorgeous love song is just Ryan and guitar but is transformed by chimes and strings which begin to further tug on your heart. "You were a good thing...In a world gone wrong" pours out emotion. He even gets away with "I'm living on Jupiter. I couldn't feel stupider".
At only thirty six Matthew Ryan is wise beyond his years. And he has a great band for the new songs including Brian Bequette and Steve Lantanation from previous band 'Strays Don't Sleep'. Ryan conveys understated emotion and depth in his songs while remaining engaging and believable. Two good songs from a compelling new album.
-- CS (for The Music Magazine 2008)
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