Samra Adhanom

Singer-songwriter Ryan Beatty sets the scene for a new era with a highly anticipated single release “Ribbons,” and the announcement of his upcoming album, Calico. The soft twinkling piano introduction in “Ribbons” immediately allows Beatty’s words to take center stage.

The lead single is an intimate and observant track, narrowing in on singular images and epiphanies. Beatty continues his revelatory lyricism seen in previous projects, using it to focus on specific moments that capture the emotions of witnessing one run from the vulnerability of love and fall into escapism. 

His voice is affectionate, cradling each detail while the minimal instrumentation gives every lyric the space to exist. The effect of this is an alluring compilation of observations and moments of introspection. The mellow piano keys allow the echo of his voice to prosper, bringing a string of loneliness to each line, as sung in “And the night bleeds into Sunday morning / And it feels like it’s going your way / Then all the lights in the bar turn on / And you remember why you came.”

Illuminated by the emphasis on Beatty’s lyricism, the battle between protection and vulnerability is accentuated. “Ribbons” epitomizes the conflict at the center of Calico, encapsulating the twisted safety in seclusion. It pushes listeners head-first into this conflict with its focus on poignant imagery. “Ribbons” is a thematic gateway. The track eliminates the fog creating a clear window into the mantra that frames Calico: “It’s brave to be nothing to no one at all.” 

Listen here!