Today, we’re thrilled to offer you an exclusive first look at Eddy Lee Ryder’s upcoming album, ‘Sweet Delusions.’ Set to be released tomorrow, August 23rd, 2024, this release marks a significant milestone in Ryder’s story, as her debut LP. Fans can secure their copy now by pre-saving through the provided link.
Ryder’s entrance into the scene came at a pivotal moment. Her debut EP, “Expected to Fly,” landed in the summer of 2020, a period when the world was grappling with unprecedented challenges. This initial offering was followed by her second EP, “Blue Hour,” which will celebrate its one year anniversary, next month.
Now, four years after her initial release – a time that saw the world turned on its head due to the global pandemic – Ryder is poised to unveil her first full-length album, ‘Sweet Delusions.’ Ryder has garnered acclaim for her heartfelt portrayals of love and life’s complexities. Her track “Smoke and Mirrors” found its way into the soundtrack of the cult horror film “Terrifier 2,” further expanding her audience. Building on this momentum, she began crafting her debut album in 2022.
For this project, Ryder joined forces with producer Dave Cerminara, known for his work with artists like Father John Misty and Weyes Blood. The album’s creation spanned two locations: Cerminara’s studio in Los Angeles and the Outlier Inn nestled in New York’s southern Catskill Mountains. The album also features Father John Misty drummer/musical director Dan Bailey, multi-instrumentalist Daniel Chae (Zach Bryan, Kacey Musgraves), and keyboardists Todd Caldwell (Crosby, Stills & Nash, James Taylor) and Dave Shephard, along with harmonies and other help from NYC friends like pianist Abby Payne and Rebecca Haviland.
In some ways, ‘Sweet Delusions’ can be seen as a product of its time during, shaped by the unique circumstances of the pandemic era. The global crisis appears to have left its mark on Ryder’s writing style, pushing her to explore many creative territories. This influence is evident in tracks like “Only Real Cowboy,” which directly references the experiences of that tumultuous period.
With this album, it’s as if you found yourself at the County Fair, in the middle of a fun house. You’re in a mirror maze of sound. As you wander through each track, you catch distorted reflections of yourself – sometimes stretched tall with hope, other times squashed short with despair. But it’s in these warped images that you begin to see yourself most clearly, recognizing the absurdity and beauty of your own experiences reflected in Ryder’s masterful songwriting.
You’ll also find it’s is a jukebox that spans decades. Drop the needle, and you might land in a smoky ’60s coffee shop, or a neon-drenched ’80s bar. Yet each track bears her distinctive stamp – a time traveler who’s learned the best tricks from every era she’s visited.
As we prepare for the release of ‘Sweet Delusions,’ it’s clear that this album represents her ability to channel so many experiences into her music, which I’m sure will create a deep connection with her audience, and so many people. And with that said, let’s take a look at what it has to offer.
It was January 31st of this year when Eddy Lee Ryder released the first single off this record, which is also the title track. Even though this was on my birthday, I’m under no sweet delusion that this song was written specifically for me. However, it does have a universal connection to everyone, and it’s something we’ve all experienced. It’s certainly a song for us.
The strings on this track are very impactful, as is the rolling percussion. I especially enjoyed the breakdown in the middle of the song. There’s almost a swing jazzy Southern California vibe to it. There’s something in her sound that’s unmistakably her own – a unique blend that sets her apart. As I listened, I found myself taken back in time to a world that merges different eras of music.
It’s as if the free-spirited vibes of the ’60s collided with the gritty authenticity of classic country. Her voice has a timeless quality that fits the song’s mood perfectly. You can hear subtle nuances in her delivery – hints of hope mingled with underlying sorrow. It’s this vocal performance that really drives home the emotional core of the song. It’s a song about endings, about the ways we deceive ourselves, and about holding on too tightly to what we’ve already lost.
Relationships often begin like a high-stakes gamble. In those early, heady days, we find ourselves placing bets on potential futures. Will this person become our rock, our shelter from life’s storms? Or are we setting ourselves up for an emotional train wreck? “Highwaymen” goes headfirst into this experience, looking at the moment when you know, this new person that you’re potentially getting into a relationship with, is just a future ex.
This track marks a shift in the album’s sound. The percussion, in particular, carries a strong 80s flavor, giving the song a retro-tinged energy that sets it apart from the opening number. The harmonies are a standout feature here, coming in through the instrumentation with precision and grace. Her voice, as always, is a powerful instrument, rich with emotion.
“Highwaymen” feels like an ode to personal freedom. It’s about someone breaking free from the confines of a relationship that no longer fits. It’s about choosing oneself, about recognizing when it’s time to hit the road and chase new horizons. There’s a sense of liberation in both the lyrics and the music, as if the song itself is an open highway stretching out towards infinite possibilities. This track seems to celebrate the courage it takes to leave the past behind and embrace an uncertain future.
“Bad Decisions” opens with a softer, more stripped-down sound that gradually builds as the song progresses. Eddy’s vocals are front and center here, showcasing her unique timbre that adds an otherworldly quality to the track. The overall effect is stunning and beautiful.
This song gets into the complex emotions of someone who’s aware of their own problematic patterns in relationships. It’s about a person who’s been unreliable and unfaithful before, yet she finds herself drawn to the excitement and thrill of these unstable situations. You see that she willing to indulge in temporary escapes, symbolized by mentions of weed and wine, and bad decisions, even knowing the relationship isn’t healthy or sustainable.
It’s also about the loneliness that inevitably follows these encounters, the emptiness that waits despite the knowledge that this person isn’t worth the trouble. I also love how the song captures the internal struggle between wanting love and needing stability, while still feeling pulled towards the dangers of a turbulent relationship. And it highlights the cyclical nature of these patterns, say that even when we manage to break free from one bad decision, we often find ourselves making new ones.
“Fool me once, shame on me; fool me twice, shame on me.” This twist on the familiar saying seems to be the heart of “Joke Is On Me.” however, it’s not really a laughing matter as this is an experience that many of us have unfortunately encountered.
The song features a melody that’s hard to shake off it’s just so incredibly infectious. Along with the vocal melody that is equally catchy, moving through the chorus with a deceivingly light touch. There’s an easygoing, almost cheerful quality to the sound that creates an interesting contrast with the serious subject matter.
“Joke Is On Me” effectively conveys those familiar feelings of confusion and self-doubt that often arise when we realize we’ve been deceived. It’s those moments when we’re so wrapped up in our own views that we miss what’s clearly visible to others.
Mostly it’s about the concept of people presenting false fronts to the world. It’s about that unsettling realization that the person you thought you knew might be completely different from who they truly are. The song gets into the uncomfortable experience of questioning whether your partner ever wanted a real connection.
Eddy skillfully expresses the emotions that come with betrayal and disillusionment. The track captures that uncomfortable feeling when you discover that someone close to you has been hiding important secrets, about pretty much everything. It’s gets into deception and the consequences of broken faith.
And with its serious themes, the upbeat melody of “Joke Is On Me” adds an interesting dimension to the song. It’s as if the music itself is wearing a mask, concealing darker truths beneath a cheerful exterior – much like the relationship it describes.
“Antarctica” takes us on a journey, but not to the frozen polar desert as the title suggest. Instead, she crafts a clever story about endings – be it the end of days or the finale of a relationship. Her songwriting shines here, filled with smart analogies that make you think. In a way, it’s like a frozen version of Billy Joel’s ‘We Didn’t Start The Fire’ with it’s very specific references.
The track is backed by a sound that reminds me of ultra new wave pop, giving it a distinct flavor. It’s another example of how this album showcases Eddy’s ability to blend different styles into something that feels uniquely her own. In fact, as I listen to the entire album, I’m struck by how difficult it is to draw comparisons to other artists. Eddy’s sound stands on its own. She truly does take inspiration from various eras, but somehow blinds it to something pretty new and exciting.
But back to those wide range of cultural references. She mentions everything from the later years of fat Elvis to the infamous white Bronco chase that got the attention of TV audiences back in the 1990s, and even touches on flat earth conspiracy theories. These diverse allusions come together to tell a story of change and uncertainty.
The song seems to explore the mix of emotions that come with facing a major shift in life. There’s a sense of apprehension about what dramatic changes might bring, coupled with a curiosity about the unknown. It’s like standing on the edge of something big, feeling both scared and hopeful at the same time. Eddy manages to capture that complex emotional state where you’re confronting an ending of some kind, but you’re not quite sure what’s on the other side. It’s a relatable feeling that many of us have experienced, whether in personal relationships or broader life changes.
“Pennyroyal Tea” stands out as one of the most emotionally charged songs I’ve encountered. Eddy Lee Ryder demonstrates her artistic talents here by taking a personal experience and crafting it into something relatable. The song manages to be deeply intimate while still leaving room for you to find your own meanings within it.
Originally, this track is about vulnerability and betrayal, cleverly disguised under the pretense of healing and guidance. It tells a story of paper trails and moments of seeking comfort, which ultimately lead to a massive breach of trust. Which is where the power of her songwritig comes in. Its message extends beyond just one person’s story. It can be viewed as a warning about the risks of placing our trust in the wrong hands, especially during our most vulnerable moments. The song shows us that even those who seem to offer support and direction might sometimes have harmful motives.
I think this song has the power to hit with many because we all carry our own set of experiences and wounds. It gets into those deeply personal moments of betrayal we might have faced, whether in our friendships, romantic relationships, or even our interactions with larger systems of authority. Eddy’s ability to convey such complex emotions through her music is simply incredible.
“Simple Touch” really shows off how great she is for writing for infectious melodies, both in her music and vocals. Pardon the pun, but ‘Simple Touch’ really grabs you. It’s such a fun and charming track with more of that easygoing rock vibe to it. And once again, when it comes to her music, she seems to be a Joan of all trades, master of all trades.
This song gets into that giddy awkwardness of early-stage relationships, where all these chance encounters and near-misses only fuel a growing attraction. I find it really relatable, yet it’s a lighthearted look at that internal monologue of wanting to be close to someone without appearing too eager. It’s about that excitement of potential romance, where you hope that awkward dance will lead to something. Ryder captures those butterflies and nervous excitement in such a fun and catchy way.
Her vocal work here is just mesmerizing. She goes into those higher registers, while delivering certain lines with a sultry allure that really adds to the song’s appeal.
“Shoop Shoop Shut Up” is a total throwback, bringing to mind those iconic girl groups and female vocalists from the ’50s and ’60s. There’s a timeless elegance to it, with a touch of sophistication and a whole lot of playful sass. The sound is pure vintage pop soul, like it’s straight out of the golden age of Motown, reminiscent of groups like The Supremes.
I’m really drawn to the stylish, old-fashioned charm of this retro-chic track. It’s got those doo-wop infused harmonies and rhythms that were the heart and soul of that genre and style. To me, it feels like one of those timeless diva ballads that could’ve been a hit in any decade.
Digging into the meaning, I sense it’s about a kind of self-deception and emotional turmoil. It seems to express a desire to break free from a toxic situation, even if that means confronting your own “craziness”. I get the impression she’s trying to quiet her inner turmoil, dealing with a lot of conflicting emotions.
I think this song really tackles how toxic relationships can mess with our mental health, and I appreciate how Ryder addresses these heavy themes with a bit of dark humor. I can see this becoming one of those songs that resonates with many people who’ve been through similar struggles. It’s like she’s owning the experience and taking pride in the personal growth that’s come from it.
“Smoke and Mirrors” really stands out with its creative approach and influences. The track’s got this great brushy percussion that gives it an almost Cash-drag style rhythm, complemented by a nice rolling bass line. It’s a unique sound that you might notice once you give it a spin.
What I find interesting about this song is how it gets into the illusion of happiness, particularly in what seems like a perfect marriage on the surface. It’s a stark look at how those picture-perfect moments and white picket fences aren’t always what they’re made out to be.
I think Ryder does a great job capturing these toxic dynamics that can lurk beneath the surface. An interesting tidbit about this track is that it was featured in the 2022 supernatural slasher film, Terrifier 2. So if you have time, be sure to give it a watch because spooky season is quickly approaching.
“Only Real Cowboy” is one of those tracks where knowing the backstory really enhances the listening experience. As soon as the song starts, you’re hit with this strong spaghetti western vibe. It’s like Ryder’s channeling Ennio Morricone. The touch of Americana mixed with a haunting melancholy really works well here. It gives me this image of a lone rider on a dusty trail. What really stands out to is the ethereal vocal riffing she does. I think it adds a lot of mystery to the track and makes it feel more emotionally rich.
From what I understand, this song is about encountering someone with this rugged, independent spirit. It’s like meeting a person who’s completely disconnected from the world outside their own little bubble. I get the sense that Ryder’s describing someone who embodies this spirit of independence and resilience, while also acknowledging their flaws of that from a distance.
I find it interesting how the song captures that feeling of wanting to connect with a complete stranger, even if it’s just to get to know them a little bit. It’s about that curiosity we sometimes feel towards people who seem to live in their own world, completely self-reliant. The way she combines the music style with this concept is really effective, I think. The western sound perfectly complements the idea of this lone, independent figure. It’s a great example of how the music and the story behind a song can work together to create something really compelling.
The song “County Fair” is a beautiful way to close out the album. The mostly acoustic atmosphere creates this sweet, serene feeling that I find really affecting. Her singing here is particularly emotional, which I think really adds to the impact of the song. This track feels like a bittersweet exploration of heartache and letting go. It’s about that struggle of releasing someone while still holding onto a tiny bit of hope that they might come back. I can really relate to that feeling of running through all the possible scenarios in your mind, wondering if there’s anything you could do to rekindle that connection.
The use of a county fair as a metaphor for the relationship is really clever, I think. It perfectly captures that sense of something exciting and full of potential, but ultimately temporary. Even though the relationship has ended, I get the sense that she can’t shake the feeling that her ex-partner might reach out. There’s even this idea that maybe writing this very song could somehow encourage them to make contact.
I find the symbolism in the song really effective. The mention of summertime blues represents that lingering sadness and nostalgia, while the creeping cold stands in for the harsh realities of having to move on. It’s a really evocative way of describing those complex emotions.
In my opinion, this is another great track on what’s been a truly impressive album. It’s a fitting end to a record that’s consistently delivered strong, emotionally moving songs. Ryder’s ability to create these emotional worlds through her music is really something special.
If you’re in the area, she will also be having a weekend release show on Sunday, near Woodstock. There will be live karaoke, an open bar, and a food truck as well. For more information on the show, check out the following link:
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