Photo: Matthew Hersch
Singer-songwriter Ryan Liberty Megan’s new single/music video, “Nevermind,” merges elements of folk-rock and alt-rock, along with nebulous hints of country into a deliciously meandering earworm of a song.
“Nevermind” anticipates Ryan’s forthcoming album, El Songo. The album’s title, derived from Esperanto, meaning “the dream,” perfectly encapsulates its essence—a collection of 15 songs that chronicle a life story told through a dream-like narrative.
Originally conceived as a 35-song project, El Songo conceptually explores the theme of embracing life’s darker moments, drawing inspiration from profound conversations about life and mental illness with a close friend. With the album nearing completion, Ryan is looking toward an autumn release.
Ryan grew up like many children, bouncing back and forth between his parents, who separated shortly after his birth. Thanks to his mother, he encountered music early on, followed by developing an interest in writing his own songs, composing his first song at the age of five.
Later, after watching Pink Floyd’s Live at Pompei under the influence of acid, he purchased a guitar, determined that he was going to achieve that level of sonic prowess. In college, he studied music for a while, then left, followed by working various jobs and playing in bands. One of those bands, the rock outfit ORYAN, began to take off.
It was a defining moment in Ryan’s life. He made his choice – electing to provide for his family and his son rather than pursue fame and fortune.
More than a decade later, in 2020, Ryan answered the beckoning call of music. It began slowly – writing songs as gifts. “Xmas Along” and “Chorus” were released in 2022.
There’s a stripped-down, raw feel to “Nevermind,” a little bit lo-fi, a little bit grungy, almost boozy. Gliding on a mid-tempo rhythm, the quavering harmonics drift and float on dream-like textures as Ryan’s syrupy vocals imbue the lyrics with languid surfaces and droll, introspective observations.
“I’m not so ugly if you squint your eyes / And try to imagine a hunk in my size / Try try try oh nevermind.”
Akin to the ne plus ultra of alt-rock and sadcore, “Nevermind” summons up a lusciously surreal mood, intoxicating and oh-so beguiling.
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