"Matthew Ryan is an amazing songwriter and performer. His music is inspiring as it stands at the precipise of musical perfection. Matthew Ryan vs. the Silver State is my favorite album by MR but as his others albums suggest, each stands alone as a work of art that individually should be experienced. This album includes songs that are both haunting and emotional, yet provide a sense of hope for those searching for it. MR's potent potential is seen in every sense of the word in the truly inspired song "Meet Me by the River", my favorite MR song to date. His music, especially Matthew Ryan vs. the Silver State, will touch the heart and mind of anyone who has the pleasure of hearing it. I cannot recommend this album enough. It is worth every penny."
Music to get lost in
Pamela Trottman | Raleigh, NC USA | 04/25/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Matthew Ryan's latest cd is incredible and mesmerizing. I listen to it over and over and never tire. It is rich and deep and beautiful."
One of the best
Shelly | Wheaton, Illinois | 05/09/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I have been an MR fan from the start. MRVSS is good from beginning to end. Ryan is an amazing singer/songwriter who's lyrics stick hard and strong."
MATTHEW RYAN /BEST YET
Brian P. Hickey Jr. | EAST NORTHPORT, NEW YORK United States | 05/15/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Like some of the best songwriters out there (Paul Westerberg, Ryan Adams, Jesse Malin, Bielanko Bros/Marah)Matthew Ryan is never at a loss for words. His newest gem, MRVSS, maybe his best. The disc starts with the seven minute "dulce et decorum est", that skips along with the aid of some beautiful fiddle work. The song would sit well in the Waterboys Fishermans Blues era. From there the album is more raw and powerful. Lyrically, "it could've been worse", "killing the ghost" and "closing in" demonstrate Ryans gift for concise emotional imagery. This is an artist that needs to be heard-buy this and spread the word."
2008's Best
M. Collins | Milwaukee, WI | 05/19/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I - embarrassingly - have never heard of Matthew Ryan until plugging into XM radio aboard an AirTran flight (they have complimentary headphones and XM). After listening to 2 hours of music, 1 song really stood out: Dulce Et Decorum Est. I wrote it down and then visit Ryan's site where this song and 3 more were available for streaming. They instantly penetrated my consciousness. I knew I had to get the album. After listening to the album many times in the past 5 days, I am floored. This is fantastic stuff."