When Ryan Montbleau and his ace band entered the studio in 2013, they knew that their decade-long road warrior days were winding down. They channeled that energy, no doubt stretching from sorrow to euphoria, into Growing Light, his ninth release.
Recorded in New Orleans with Galactic’s Ben Ellman, the album soaks up that city’s character and vibe. Songs like the funky “Pacing Like Prince†and the brooding “Loving You†crackle with energy while Montbleau’s soulful voice shines bright on ballads like “Throw Me Away.”
With a nod to both his early days as a solo performer and a future without his longtime traveling mates, Montbleau includes a few wondrous acoustic songs such as the contemplative “Our Own Place.†The album version is couched in an ethereal arrangement, but I’m partial to this stark acoustic version. We’re delighted to premiere it for your listening and viewing enjoyment.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.