A serene folk enchantment shows on “Summer Rain,” a track from an upcoming 4-track EP via Bristol, UK-based artist Ryan McMurtry. Also the guitarist and vocalist of bands Play Misty and Sugarmoon, McMurtry’s solo material is compelling; “Summer Rain” represents his first solo release this year, followed by the EP — which notes classic folk, soft-rock, and psychedelic inspirations.
Steady acoustics and twangy guitars lead into a gripping vocal presence. “Summer rain, whispers in my ear,” McMurtry lets out, exuding a melancholic reflection upon the “those days are over,” acknowledgement. “It’s a different kind of melody,” signals a delightful shift, with pulsing guitars and a sense of hopeful, rainy-day introspection. The swaying, hazy guitar complement an alluring vocal presence, sounding like a cross of Neil Young and Fleet Foxes. “Summer Rain” is a delight, and has us firmly anticipating the EP.
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This and other tracks can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Folk’ Spotify playlist.
