ryan john clary's new album, "Sunflower Lemonaide.," is a masterclass in emotional honesty, featuring nine tracks with introspective lyrics and modern, rhythmic production. The album clocks in at just 28 minutes and shows how well clary can blend her acoustic-folk roots with various pop and hip-hop aesthetics to create a sound that is personal yet fashion-forward.
Songs like "Try" and "Luck'n Trust Me" compel you to reflect on what's expected of you and who you are. They establish an album tone that is as much about personal progress as it is about music. The production adds to the story, not takes away from it, and clary's voice brings you along on his journey. A highlight is the interlude "Andy," an homage to clary's mentor, Andy Blakelock. The track provides a respectful, thoughtful pause that reveals some of the influences guiding clary's artistic development.
Featuring guitar by Chris Bayers, "Andy" bookends the entire album with its message about loss, learning, and strength. "The Spins" and "Silly Billy" touch on temptation and insecurity, leaving a sense of calm in other songs like "Dresses Like Elvis" and "A World Without You." "Sunflower Lemonaide." is a turbulent record, and it's one you listen to for the friction combined with resolution.
Combining acoustic folk songwriting with contemporary pop and hip-hop production, clary creates an album that is at once reflective and upbeat. "Sunflower Lemonaide." is a journey through introspection, loss, temptation, and, ultimately, growth. Those who like their music to mean something, as well as modern folk and crossover production, will keep returning to this album.
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