A local hero. Bill Ryder-Jones, a renowned musician and songwriter hailing from the Wirral Peninsula, brought his blend of melancholy and hope to Content in support of his latest critically acclaimed album lechyd Da. Born and raised in West Kirby, Ryder-Jones’s connection to the Wirral is deeply ingrained in his music. His latest album, “Iechyd Da” (Welsh for “Good Health”), is the perfect example of this connection, with Ryder-Jones describing it as a reflection of the raw, seaside atmosphere of the Wirral.
Performing at Content, one of Liverpool’s newest independent music venue, Ryder-Jones showcased songs from “Iechyd Da,” his fifth studio album. Leading a seven-piece band, he opened the show with tracks like “I Hold Something In My Hand,” “Christinha,” and “If Tomorrow Starts Without Me,” before concluding with the powerful “This Can’t Go On.”
Throughout the performance, Ryder-Jones delivers a diverse range of songs, including highlights like “A Bad Wind Blows In My Heart, Part 2,” “Hanging Song,” and “Anthony & Owen.” Despite the underlying melancholy in his recorded music, the live experience at Content was characterised by positivity, emotional resilience, and moments of playfulness.
The venue itself, constructed from repurposed materials and reclaimed shipping containers, provided a warm and intimate setting for Ryder-Jones’s music. Songs like “I Know That It’s Like This (Baby)” and “Seabirds” created a sense of intimacy and warmth. One of the standout moments of the evening came with “Thankfully for Anthony,” a heartfelt ode to friendship and companionship. His lyrics connecting with the audience as they reflected on their own experiences of navigating life’s complexities. Throughout the performance, Ryder-Jones’ production expertise came to the fore, with intricate arrangements and soaring choruses filling the venue with warmth and optimism. Despite the album’s exploration of darkness and despair, tonight’s show served as an uplifting reminder of the power of music to find light in the darkest of times. Since his departure from the The Coral for personal reasons, his solo career can also be described as one of resilience and finding light in the darkness. A heart on your sleeve artist and performer who bares it all. Tonight was a masterclass in emotional storytelling from the Wirral’s finest.
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