By Darren Grayer.
I first became aware of Ryley Walker’s music in 2015 on release of his second solo album, Primrose Green. It picked up a fair amount of critical acclaim and the comparisons to John Martyn, Nick Drake, Michael Chapman, and Bert Jansch were enough to gain him interest from a UK audience. I saw him perform at that year’s End Of The Road Festival, and was really impressed by an artist who looked and sounded way beyond his (then) 25 years.
Since then, Walker has released another four studio albums and several collaborative albums with other artists including fellow Chicago musician Bill McKay.
Tonight (29/1/25) is Ryley Walker’s first visit of any kind to Southampton, and immediately as he takes to the stage, he tells the Joiners audience how much he has enjoyed his day in the city.
He effortlessly eases his way into his set with an instrumental and then quickly hits full stride with the wonderful Roundabout, taken from 2016’s Golden Sings That Have Been Sung. A perfect example of Walker’s psychedelic and sometimes hypnotic folk. The song builds into a spellbinding crescendo that highlights the artist’s wonderful guitar skills. That’s not to take away from his vocal ability. He possesses a rich sounding voice that fills the room, aided by the always excellent sound quality at the venue.
Between songs, Walker chats enthusiastically with his audience and shares his delight at spotting someone wearing an XTC t shirt. “There’s nowhere near enough love in America for XTC”, he states. I feel pretty sure some could make the case for that being the same on these shores.
He then goes on to tell how he was berated the previous night in Hebden Bridge for pouring milk first into a cup of tea. “The English are so good at making tea. If I ever apply for British citizenship, I ‘m pretty sure someone will turn it down if they find out I put milk in first”.
Waker’s set continues, taking in songs from across his albums, including Rang Dizzy from 2021s Course In Fable, and the self-deprecating, but incredibly beautiful The Halfwit In Me, again from Golden Sings. A real nod to the aforementioned Nick Drake to these ears.
He then throws in a cover version of Magazine’s excellent Back To Nature, from their Secondhand Daylight album. Perhaps a surprising choice, although not entirely given the previous mention of XTC, and another of Killing Joke. He’s obviously a fan of the post punk music.
Three of the last four songs that wrap up Ryley Walker’s set are taken from that album, Primrose Green, including the title track and old favourite On The Banks Of The Old Kishwaukee.
Closing with Summer Dress, it’s clear we’ve been in the presence of a highly talented artist whose all-round ability is quite masterful. “That’s all I’ve got for you,” he states, to the sound of rapturous applause. I hope it’s not too long before he returns.
A quick mention for Scottish folk singer, Sam Grassie, and his excellent saxophonist, Nathan, who provided excellent support and helped set up a thoroughly entertaining evening.
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