rock

On December 1st, The Plus Four released an EP. However, that band is actually a trick, a sly slight of hand from Paul ‘Trip’ Ryan of SUPER 8. All songs on the EP were written, performed, recorded, and produced by Mr. Ryan. The music incorporates love of The Beatles, a sweet nod to Donovan, early ’60s melody and melancholy, and an unflinching focus on pop songwriting. The music of the 1960s stands as a testament to a revolutionary era, marked by social upheaval, cultural shifts, and artistic innovation. Drawing inspiration from this golden age of music allows contemporary artists such as ‘Trip’ to tap into a rich reservoir of creativity, blending nostalgia with modern sensibilities.

The ability to take influence of the past and build on to it is a testament to enduring impact on the evolution of the music being made by Mr. Ryan. From innovative approaches to sound and studio techniques to timeless songwriting and eclectic influences, music of the 1960s and 1970s continues to provide a rich tapestry for artists and musicians to draw inspiration. As indie musicians continue to forge their own paths in the ever-changing whirlwind of the music industry, the bands and musicians of the past remain a guiding light, a source of encouragement to embrace experimentation, celebrate diversity, and pursue artistic independence. The spirit of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Who, The Kinks, The Animals, The Searchers, Donovan and The Dave Clark Five lives on in the independent music scene via innovative artists like Paul ‘Trip’ Ryan. He holds a sacred testament to the timeless and transcendent nature of music that is catchy and thoughtful.

Remember that when the beat leads you to sway, clap and hum with a smile on your face — even if the lyrics are telling you terrible things can happen to all of us — it is because of the undeniable gravity of the pop hook. And, Trip is a master of the pop hook. Sometimes looking back allows us to move forward.

The elusive secret of the pop hook lies in its ability to transcend the boundaries of musical genres and captivate the listener’s attention with infectious melodies. Trip’s music, and especially this EP, stands in the present while looking back over his shoulder to a past that still sounds fresh and meaningful. A pop hook is that magical element that makes a song unforgettable, a snippet of sound that embeds itself in the listener’s mind and refuses to let go. It’s the sonic glue that binds the entire composition together, creating a memorable and often addictive experience. And that magic is the stock and trade of Paul Ryan.

At its core, a pop hook is a concise and catchy musical phrase that serves as the focal point of a song. It can manifest as a catchy vocal melody, an irresistible chord progression, or a combination of both in most of Trip’s songs. The secret lies in its simplicity and universality, making it accessible to a broad audience. Whether it’s the sing-along chorus or the infectious riff of a guitar, the pop hook has the power to resonate with listeners across diverse musical tastes.

The elusive nature of the pop hook is in its ability to strike a delicate balance between familiarity and novelty. It draws upon musical conventions and structures that are recognizable to the listener, providing a sense of comfort and predictability. Yet, at the same time, it introduces a unique twist or unexpected element that sets it apart from the mundane, ensuring that it stands out in the crowded landscape of popular music. This ability to hold these competing ideas together at the same time is a gift that Trip was blessed to possess.

The pop hooks of Paul Ryan whether we call him ‘Trip,’ ‘Super 8’ or ‘The Plus Four’, possess a magical quality that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers. It communicates directly with the listener’s emotions, creating an instant connection that transcends words. You want to sway, hum, and nod your head. The simplicity of a well-crafted pop hook allows it to become a universal language of emotion, enabling it to resonate with people around the world or across the years. Trip’s music is a carefully crafted combination of simplicity and uniqueness that transcends genres and cultures, leaving an indelible mark on the listener’s musical memory. As long as there are ears to listen, Trip’s quest for the perfect pop hook will continue to inspire anyone interested in great pop music regardless of the label we put on it or the time period in which it is generated.

The holiday season is traditionally accompanied by the familiar sounds of sleigh bells, cheerful choirs, and iconic tunes from well-established artists. However, for those with an inclination towards alternative and independent music, the indie rock genre offers a refreshing twist to the festive soundtrack. On November 21st, Tom Gilliam and I celebrated our 13th annual YTAA Indie Holiday show. We played music from Dolph Chaney, The Popravinas, The Ramones, The Pogues, Darling West, Heather Redman, Fitz and The Tantrums, My Morning Jacket, Van Plating, Olivia Frances, The Surfajettes, Best Coast, Trey Stone and The Ringers, Calexico, Librarians with Hickeys, Debra Devi, Fountains of Wayne, The Decemberists, Joey Ramone, Bad Religion, Heartless Bastards, The Killers, and Dayton’s own Escape Velocity among others over three hours. I wanted to publicly thank Tom Gilliam of the excellent Dayton-based band Ghost Town Silence, for doing this special show with me for over a decade. I wondered what is it about independent music that allows for the creation of exciting new holiday music. So, if you will indulge me as we enter the holiday season, I will delve into the world of indie rock holiday songs, exploring the charm and uniqueness they bring to the season.

Taking a break from tradition can be a healthy and positive experience. Indie rock holiday songs provide a welcome departure from the conventional jingles and carols that dominate the airwaves during the festive season. Unlike the predictability of traditional holiday music, indie rock artists infuse their creativity into the lyrics and melodies, offering a fresh and sometimes irreverent take on the holiday spirit. The departure from traditional sounds allows listeners to experience the season with a new perspective, embracing the diversity that indie rock brings to the table.

One of the hallmarks of indie rock is its ability to convey complex emotions through music, expressing complex emotions — that special sense of being hit “in the feels” can be a moment of self-reflection. While traditional holiday songs often focus on joy and celebration, indie rock holiday tunes explore a broader spectrum of feelings associated with the season. From the melancholic reflections on solitude during the holidays to the bittersweet nostalgia of past celebrations, indie rock captures the multifaceted nature of the holiday experience. Artists like Sufjan Stevens, The Shins, Debra Devi, and Heartless Bastards weave intricate narratives that resonate with those who may find the holiday season to be a mix of joy and introspection. The Decemberists’ reinterpretation of Big Star’s Jesus Christ, from their album 3rd released in 1974, illustrates this approach quite clearly. The band’s official video incorporates the idea of a Yule Log experience into the music video.

Indie rock holiday songs showcase a range of perspectives on the holidays, reflecting the diversity of experiences within the indie rock community. One of the great aspects of alternative and independent music is the opening to diverse perspectives on the holidays. These songs often touch upon themes like non-traditional celebrations, unconventional family dynamics, and the challenges of navigating societal expectations during the festive season. The narratives presented in indie rock holiday songs provide a sense of relatability for listeners who may not find their own experiences mirrored in more mainstream holiday music. The 2016 original holiday song, “I Feel It In My Bones” from The Killers’ alternative holiday album “Don’t Waste Your Wishes” takes a dark, almost sinister interpretation of Santa Claus.

Indie rock, by its very nature, is a genre that thrives on experimentation and innovation. The best characteristic of an independent song is the surprise you discover when you hear it. Dolph Chaney’s excellent “Jingle Bells” set to Van Halen’s “Panama” is a complete surprise as well as a delight! Big Stir Records has released several fantastic indie holiday songs as part of their Yuletide Wave. When applied to holiday music, the willingness to explore and recreate results in a rich tapestry of unique soundscapes in which to capture the seasonal vibe. From the indie alt-country and folk-infused sounds of Trey Stones and The Ringers’ “Santa, Please Bring Me a Guitar” to the rock and roll vibes of The Ramones “Merry Christmas (I Don’t Want to Fight Tonight),” these songs reimagine the sonic landscape of the holidays. The infusion of indie rock elements into holiday music introduces listeners to a sonic experience that goes beyond the traditional, breathing new life into the seasonal soundscape.

Indie rock holiday songs offer a delightful departure from the familiar tunes that dominate the airwaves during the festive season. By expressing complex emotions, presenting diverse perspectives, and exploring unique soundscapes, indie rock artists contribute a distinct flavor to the holiday music repertoire. The unconventional jingles and alternative carols provide an avenue for listeners to connect with the holiday spirit in ways that resonate with the ever-evolving nature of contemporary music. So, this holiday season, consider expanding your playlist to include indie rock gems that bring a touch of creativity and innovation to the festive sounds we hear this time of year.