The Sophomore CD by Akron-Area singer-songwriter-guitarist Ryan Humbert demonstrates a mastery of "Americana" that rivals almost anyone's. This well executed, self produced record skillfully blends the diverse strains of roots music that make up this non-genre in memorable songs. He balances urgent, infectious rockers like "Alone" with lovely and spacious ballads like "Under a Late Night Sky" that are sweeping without being schmaltzy. "You Never Noticed" and "Another Bad Day" have a comfortable country-folk feel, while "Hangman" creates a deliciously morose atmosphere that's accented by subtle touches of violin and lap steel. Several songs, including "Redemption", "Make It Right", and the tambourine-banging, hip shaking "Can't Beat The Devil" combine good old rock-n-roll with soul, tossing on gospel influences backup vocals to drive them over the top. Humbert's slightly gritty vocals and unforced delivery mesh comfortably with evocative but not obscure lyrics to drive a record that has both depth and accessibility.
                            Read more...