December’s artist: Ryan Montbleau Band
For this edition and rebirth of "Music You’ll Like
Instantly, SomeTimes" I’ve chosen to focus on a lesser
known artist, at least here in the mid-Atlantic. I’ve known about Ryan and his
band for some time now, although he’s been at it for quite a while. His musical
style and tastes are as varied as his band. Hailing from Massachusetts, he has gathered quite a large
following all around the Northeast. Unfortunately, that has not spread to the
sub-DC region as of yet. Fortunately, that leaves the few shows he does in and
round this area as quaint and connective soirees that still bring the
enthusiasm and pitch perfect sound of any one of their show you are blessed to
catch.
The music is difficult to categorize into one genre but it
clearly begins with Ryan’s finger-picking guitar style and Tracy Chatman-esque
vocals (just checked his website - www.ryanmontbleauband.com
- after I wrote this line, and low and behold, he’s covering “Fast Car,” I’ll
share in a follow up post). In most songs you will find creative plucking
melodies, either on acoustic or electric guitar, combined with a range of
a-rhythmic lyrics that flow from spoken-word to larynx straining high-ends,
sometimes within the same song. To round out, and often transform the musical
style of many of Ryan’s songs, he is backed by a wealth of musical talent.
Matty can transition from stand-up to electric bass as the song needs. James
handles the drums, typically on a scaled down kit yet can do a whole lot with
very little. His brother, Jason, is one of the best keys players I’ve seen live
and probably add the most to the additional sounds of the band’s songs. On
additional percussions is Yahuba who joins the band from time to time on the
road and it is usually apparent when he is not there – not that it takes away
from the experience, but he does bring an added depth to the live show that is
found in the studio recordings. Early in the band’s formation, they had a
violinist who left the band for reasons not known to me, but he left a
indelible make on the music that I heard when discovering the band – and seeing
them live. About a year ago, they introduced Lyle on lead/electric guitar who
brings an element missing from the early incarnation of RMB – a flair of rock,
jazz, and jams that compliments the talents of the other members. It is clear
in their live shows that the band has progressed and matured, but they have not
produced an album with their current line up, one I look forward to hearing.
Musically, the band fuses, melds, transitions from a variety
of influences – jazz, ska, calypso, folk, bluegrass, pop, call-and-response.
Lyrically, Ryan often weaves stories of life on the road, light-hearted life experiences,
and serious relationship ballads. They are often literal, comical,
introspective, and observational.
I would be remiss not to mention the fact that the Ryan
Montbleau Band has embraced the modern technological age and stream all their
live shows @ www.rmblive.com so check it
out. I’ve seen him live several times and every show is unique and outstanding.
In addition, I’ve listened to a few solo shows that are equally enjoyable and
intimate. As a band, they can handle coffee house shows, club shows, bars,
listening rooms, and party cruises- their music transcends pigeon-holing so my
guess is that you’ll find at least one song you’ll like. And here’s a few to
start with:
Songs that will change your life: Stretch, 75 and Sunny,
Grain of Sand
Other songs that you must listen to: Variety, The Boat Song,
Maybe Today, I Can’t Wait, Slippery
Road, Draw the Line, Here et Al.
Hidden Tracks: Just Perfect, Eggs, Straw in the Wind, Quickie
