Album Notes

A unique voice has arrived. Hauntingly melodic, Michael Ryther sings with an unabashed passion reminiscent of Jeff Buckley. Raised on 80s mavericks The Cure, R.E.M., The Smiths, David Bowie and the Violent Femmes, Michael Ryther's eclectic folk pop delivers a startlingly new sound.

Tender, honest and raw his emotionally driven performances are converting hearts and minds at well known Los Angeles clubs The Whisky A Go Go, The Sunset Room, The Pig n' Whistle, Lulu's Beehive, The Joint, Sacred Grounds and The Knitting Factory. With such a distinct sound he has built an avid following.

Produced by Chuck Alvarez (The Emotions, Tim Weisberg) Michael's debut cd features Blue Fiddle diva Lisa Haley (Brian Setzer, John Hiatt), keyboardist Barnaby Finch (Lionel Richie, Boz Scaggs, George Benson, Lee Ritenour) and percussionist David Leach (Ben Harper).

Michael's twin brother, internationally known violinist David Ryther, also plays on the album. The cd was mixed by Dave Swanson (Dave Matthews, Blues Traveler, Sheryl Crow, Spin Doctors, Gov't Mule).

You may have heard Michael's lush cello ballad 'Love of My Life' featured in Lodestone Productions' film 'Harlequin'. He has also co-written songs with cd baby star Ali Handal.

Born in San Francisco to a family that also produced a professional trumpet player, Michael started writing songs at 15 as a way to cope with the death of his father and brother. "Too much was left unexpressed when I lost them." Michael says. "So I just picked up a guitar and started singing."

Michael gives The Cure, U2, Coldplay, Jude, Jason Mraz, Jeff Buckley, R.E.M., Sarah Mclachlan, Wire,
The Buzzcocks, Queen, The Beatles and David Bowie as influences.