Don Ryan discusses chaos, craft, and his new album, exploring a darker side of Americana

y singer-songwriter Don Ryan’s music has a unique quality that sets him apart from his peers. His songs, which he describes as feeling like they’ve been “left out in the rain—warped, weathered, and quietly glowing,” embody a blend of Americana, gypsy jazz, and psychedelic folk. While critics have attempted to draw comparisons to artists like Tom Waits and Elliott Smith, Ryan’s work defies easy categorization, showcasing a sound that is both intricate and slightly unhinged.

Raised on a diet of extreme metal music before gravitating towards artists like Wilco and Townes Van Zandt, Ryan’s songwriting reflects a merging of aggressive, explosive, and dark elements with more traditional folk and indie influences. He notes the similarities in angst and edge between artists like Fiona Apple and metal bands like Pantera, highlighting the unique tension that shapes his music.

Ryan’s approach to songwriting often begins with him playing dissonant tones on an acoustic guitar, allowing melodies to emerge organically. He emphasizes the importance of starting with the music first, with lyrics following afterward. This process creates a foundation from which the overall mood and direction of the song can take shape.

While Ryan appreciates comparisons to artists like Tom Waits, he acknowledges that such references can sometimes be limiting. He points out that while his music may show traces of influence from these artists, there are also many other layers and elements at play in his work. He recognizes the distinctiveness of those artists and strives to carve out his own path in the music world.

One anecdote that has captured attention is Ryan’s learning to play guitar in a funeral home, an experience that has been exaggerated over time. While the setting may have added a touch of darkness to his musical journey, Ryan emphasizes that his focus on the guitar itself was paramount, regardless of the surroundings. The unusual backstory offers a glimpse into his unconventional approach to music and songwriting.

Critics have noted a “dark circus” quality in Ryan’s music, attributing it to his use of circus imagery and themes in his songs. While some may perceive this as theatrical, Ryan views it more as a reflection of his love for such imagery and sound. Songs like “The Carnival” and “King of the Clowns” showcase his affinity for incorporating circus elements into his music, adding a unique and vibrant dimension to his repertoire.

In both his recorded work and live performances, Ryan weaves a tapestry of sound that is both captivating and immersive. His willingness to embrace controlled chaos and explore the boundaries of traditional genres sets him apart as a truly distinctive voice in the music landscape. With each song, Ryan invites listeners into a world that is at once familiar and yet strangely novel, leaving a lingering impression that is hard to shake.