We Speak Music
Finding Clarity in Chaos: The Heartfelt Story Behind Ryan Toomin’s ‘Disarray’
Ryan Toomin’s debut album, Disarray, is a warm, introspective collection that blends indie rock, power pop, and soft rock influences into a sound as heartfelt as it is personal. From the opening track, Toomin sets the tone for an album that is equal parts reflective and hopeful. The record feels intimate and deeply honest, with Toomin playing every instrument himself, a testament to his multi-instrumental talent and DIY approach to music. Disarray, is a record that invites listeners to walk alongside Toomin as he navigates life’s ups and downs, all while delivering lush melodies and thoughtful songwriting.
The album’s emotional core revolves around Toomin’s journey from Los Angeles to Lexington, Kentucky, a change that shaped much of the material. The title track, “Disarray,” captures the confusion of personal growth, layering melancholy guitar riffs with warm vocal harmonies that echo the bittersweet nature of change.
Stylistically, Disarray, pulls from Toomin’s early influences, with traces of Elliott Smith’s melancholic lyricism and Radiohead’s atmospheric soundscapes evident throughout. His experience in producing and recording the album on his own shines, particularly in the layered guitar work and crisp vocal arrangements.
One of the most remarkable aspects of, Disarray, is the emotional range Toomin conveys over just nine tracks. The album moves from somber reflections on loneliness to songs that explore hope and new beginnings, most notably on tracks like “Bruises” which finds him emerging from the shadows of past relationships into a more peaceful place. The instrumental arrangements reflect this shift, moving from sparse, acoustic moments to fuller, more anthemic compositions. Toomin’s voice, warm and inviting, guides listeners through each stage of the journey with a sincerity that feels refreshing.
In all, Disarray, is an impressive debut, marked by honest storytelling, intricate musicianship, and a sense of vulnerability that makes it stand out in the indie rock landscape. It’s clear that Toomin poured himself into every aspect of the album, making it a fully realized reflection of his artistic vision. By the end of the record, listeners will feel as though they’ve experienced a deeply personal transformation, and, much like Toomin, they’ll come away from it with a sense of calm after the storm.
We Speak Music
Arathejay’s “Jesus Christ II” Lands on Apple Music’s “Africa Now: Best of 2024”
Ghanaian artist Arathejay has achieved another significant milestone with his hit single “Jesus Christ II” featuring Black Sherif, as the track is officially included in Apple Music’s “Africa Now: Best of 2024” playlist.
This recognition marks a stellar year for Arathejay, who was spotlighted as an Apple Music Artist in October. The track, which has become a cultural anthem, has consistently ranked in the top three on Apple Music’s “Top 100: Ghana” chart since its release, recently reclaiming the #1 position.
The inclusion of “Jesus Christ II” in the year-end playlist celebrates its powerful resonance with listeners across Africa. It also highlights Arathejay’s growing reputation across the African continent.
With fans eagerly anticipating his upcoming single, set to close out the year, Arathejay appears positioned for even greater success in 2025.
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