Ryan Hager shares his flawless debut album, "Treadin' Water"
Review by Austin Sher
Released earlier this summer in June, Ryan Hager’s debut album Treadin’ Water is a record that we haven’t been able to turn off. Read along with us for our stellar review of the record, in addition some insight on the artist as well.
Considering this is Ryan’s first long form release into the world of music, let us be hopefully one of many to say that this record is fantastic. Before we fully get into it though, let us introduce you to the artist. Ryan is telling stories within his music that features tunes and tales around family, misadventure, and introspective themes. His songs bear a melodic and lyrical torch that was lit by his life and musical experiences. At only 15, he started working for his Grandfather building homes. His experiences in construction and playing guitar in several local and regional bands over the last two decades have shaped his conscious pursuit of song craft and the importance of connecting with the people and places that have shaped him.
With such a rich background being raised within music, it’s no surprise that Treadin’ Water turned out as well as it did. Coming in at a total track length of 7, spanning 21 jam-packed minutes, there’s really something for everyone on the record. At its base, it’s absolutely a straightforward country album, but as you listen and dissect, there are more elements featured than what’s normally attached to country records these days.
Instrumentally speaking, the addition of a horns section periodically in the musical breakdowns of songs was a wonderful choice. Diversifying the sound so that each song sort of comes into its own is absolutely key to keeping a listener intrigued into what’s going to happen next. While the songs are relatively short in length, each packs an individual punch that leaves you wanting to come back later for more.
We’re happy Ryan’s music came to us when it did, because this is just the type of music that we needed in our lives. It’s happy sounding, it provides fun stories within the lyrics to listen to, and it keeps you guessing all the way through. With all this being said though, we think it’s about that time that we let you know to stop reading, and get listening!
For all things Ryan Hager, to listen to Treadin’ Water, and to keep updated with all future releases and info, please check out the following links below.
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