Songs Are Souvenirs

Time to continue with the singer/songwriter love. Matthew Ryan has just released She’s A Sparrow from his upcoming full-length In The Dusk Of Everything, out on October 30. This album will be the last part in a trilogy, following up the two previous releases (Dear Lover, I recall standing as though nothing could fall in the dusk of everything). If this song is any indication, we’re all in for something special.

I thought I'd also include some tracks in this post from Dissent from the Living Room and Hopeless to Hopeful, as these albums were the starting point for me, and both are a really beautiful collection of songs. I think there's a real pureness to them, and prove why demos or songs in that vein are often my favorite. These releases are now out of print, but several tracks appear on later LPs.

I've seen reviews commenting on the sadness or sorrow of his music, but I've never really perceived it that way. That's the beauty of music I guess, open interpretation. I see it more as in tune with life, both the ups and downs. I've never really formed a deep connection with music that isn't this way, or doesn't confront that idea. There's an undercurrent of hope and empathy in these songs, and the notion of trying to figure out what it is we're doing here.

Demoland Part 1 (later released as I Must Love Leaving) is one of the first songs that struck me right away. It's beautifully simple, like all the best songs are.

Matthew Ryan - Demoland Part 1

Demoland Part 2 (AKA Still Part Two). And in these hours that unwind with such effort...

Matthew Ryan - Demoland Part 2

I Can't Steal You (appeared later on Happiness and Regret Over The Wires).

I'm in love with a red sky
I'm in love with a tragedy

Matthew Ryan - I Can't Steal You

Purchase some tunes