Ryan Thomas Smelle is a singer/songwriter that has been playing in and around the Niagara Region for over 20 years. He is often found performing solo as ‘Ryan Thomas Smelle’ or as a duo/trio under the name the ‘Ryan Thomas Band’. His music crosses many genres and includes acoustic, folk, pop, rock, country and adult contemporary. Ryan’s passion for creating his own original works has re-emerged after a hiatus from the music scene to take care of issues with his young and growing family. He is now the proud father of two. These personal experiences have helped Ryan to grow emotionally and creatively as a song-writer helping him to offer heartfelt lyrics and soulful songs. Ryan is open to a variety of cover performances, as well, playing hits from the 60’s to today in a variety of genres. Enjoy Ryan Thomas Smelle’s new style of songwriting on all streaming platforms, or dive into his older pop rock catalogue to experience his songwriting evolution.
ABOUT THE ALBUM: Goodbye Polar Bear – released on September 7th
“The new album, Goodbye Polar Bear is the 2nd part of In The Homestretch and almost a collection of the B sides. All the songs are just me in my studio in raw live takes with some editing here or there. The entire album’s central theme is around mental health and each song tells a story of a struggle that runs through one’s mind relating to anxiety, worry, depression or even the purpose of why one should stick around.The 28 track idea has been 4 years in the making and starts with song titled ‘Today’ and ends with the track ‘Tomorrow’. I am really proud of these 2 albums as one project and looking forward to shifting my creative process to include a band on my next album with a more upbeat feel. The album’s release date falls on what would have been my daughter’s 8th birthday. ” – Ryan Thomas Smelle
ABOUT THE FOCUS SINGLE: “Sad Song”
“Every once in awhile I sift through some old recording ideas for inspiration and stumbled across a file titled ‘Sad Song’. To my surprise, it was a complete song and not just a snippet. I was in the midst of grief over the passing of my daughter and have no recollection of creating it. I immediately wanted to add to my upcoming album.
The album in general has a raw edge to it and this song takes the cake. I played through the song in several takes without stopping and layered them on top of themselves. You will notice that the guitar seems to increase in frequency and intensity ever so slightly throughout the song and this adds to the emotional swell. I added subtle lead guitar and some poignant piano to emphasize the passing through grief into brighter future of hope. ” – Ryan Thomas Smelle
Stream “Sad Song” on Your Preferred Platform
Follow Ryan Thomas Smelle
Website
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
YouTube
Spotify
Apple Music
Soundcloud