After years of touring under his belt and an ever-growing fanbase, [Ryan Montbleau](https://www.instagram.com/ryanmontbleau/) has made a respected name for himself in the indie folk rock world. Known for his soulful, intimate songwriting and his uncanny ability to connect with his listener’s emotions in a playful and lighthearted way, the recording artist has recently returned with a more avant-garde approach: rolling out a series of 4 diverse EPs entitled _Wood,_ _Fire, Water_ and _Air_.
_Wood,_ the first EP from the series, was released last month and reflects on Ryan’s meditations of what it means to be human during these unparalleled times. His latest release, _Fire_, is the second EP in the series, and covers themes such as learning to live in the present moment and celebrating the beauty of life.
“It took a long time for me to get to a place where I could trust myself enough to stretch out like this,” says Montbleau, who experimented with synthesizers and drum machines and added piano and mandolin to his repertoire for the project. “I’d always deferred to other people’s expertise in the studio, but learning to trust my ears and get my hands dirty with the music was a totally empowering experience.”
In _Fire_, Ryan certainly shines by showing off his rock and roll personality. All 4 songs on the EP carry its own flair and finesse, turning what would be considered simple tunes into something quite deep, flavorful, and fun.
Montbleau states, “The songs on _Fire_ were a chance for me to let loose and have fun. They were an opportunity to not overthink things for a change, to trust my gut and follow what felt good.”
The opening song “Just Enough Pain” is an upbeat tune about learning from your hardships and knowing that life only gives you what you’re equipped to handle. The song features clever lyricism, rich harmonious vocals, and staggering guitarmanship which feels fluid and energizing.
“After Dark” is about finding liberation and freedom. It’s wildly inventive, swinging and tilting with burning vocals and cinematic soundscapes seamlessly intertwined with traditional and modern instrumentation.
The _Fire_ EP is as energizing as it is cathartic, and offers yet another layer of Ryan Montbleau’s multi-faceted personality. Spiked with both pain and pleasure, its clever and thoughtful delivery shows the songwriter’s indelible ability to connect with his listeners in new distinctive ways.
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