Expected To Fly
Self-Released, 2020
8/10
A classically trained musician and opera singer, this first effort from Eddy Lee Ryder brings plenty of melodies and strong songwriting to her vintage style of songwriting that’s nostalgic in all the best ways.
Ryder starts with the title track, where a warm guitar and her expressive pipes are complemented with keys and drums as the setting soars high, and “Silver Chain” follows with some retro-pop ideas in a darker setting that’s a bit mysterious.
The remainder of the EP is just as strong, including the piano balladry of “Dreams”, where Ryder’s range is explored with fascinating results, while “Small Apartment” displays a playfulness that’s dance friendly and certainly not shy of melody. “Vultures” exits the listen just as exceptionally as it started, with a gorgeous delivery of soft rock that displays immense skill and a timeless execution.
Ryder grew up on a steady diet of Stevie Nicks, Kate Bush and Bruce Springsteen, and those influences are certainly present in her song craft that starts out on a very high note with this debut EP.
Travels well with: Tawny Ellis- Love Life; Sarah Morris- All Mine