It’s possible that pop music in the last decade or two has just gotten tired of the classic love song – that the idea was “cliche” and overdone. That could be why so many pop songs seem to tend toward a sensual direction, or to express anger or disillusionment. But there’s something to be said for a song that straightforwardly celebrates how much better a person’s life can be after meeting that special someone. Ryland James’ latest single, “The Reason,” is a pop tune that does that tremendously.
The JUNO-nominated James, who hails from Deseronto, ON, keeps it simple in some meaningful ways with “The Reason.” The lyrics are sweet without being saccharine, and specific enough to be believable, yet general enough to be relatable to a wide swath of listeners. This lyric is a good summary of the bright change that James sings of in this song: “Right when I thought it was hopeless / Watching another door closing / Had no place to fall / ‘Til you came along / Now your love is the reason.”
Musically, “The Reason” feels like a throwback, and not only because of its subject matter. The keys ringing out a 1950s ‘triplets’ feel from the start, paired with James’ soulful voice, evokes the vocal stylings of Leon Bridges and sets up an arrangement would be at home in an Andra Day song. The result is a sound that is modern, yet timeless. The production and vocal performance are spotless; it’s polished but still feels genuine. And it’s a compact track, clocking at under three minutes, a concise burst of sunshine.
Whether pop is your style, or you go to great lengths to avoid top 40 radio, “The Reason” is an easy song to like. Ryland James’ work on this track is proof that the time-tested love song still works – and always will.
Photo Credit: Artist Website
Matt Wheeler is a Lancaster County, PA-based singer, songsmith, stage-banter conversationalist, husband, & special-needs father. And an avid vinyl record collector, a purveyor of random facts, & tour-er of Canada (southern Ontario is a favorite destination). Ever since being introduced to Great Lake Swimmers' music through Pandora in about 2009, he has had an appreciation for Canadian music.
Matt's songs & stories, including his classic literature-based project "Wonder of It All," can be found at www.mattwheeleronline.com.
