Described as having songs and a performance style that cover a wide emotional range, in the past, JP has featured on the ‘Celtic Connection’ Compilation album with a host of emerging acts. He has opened for Rod Stewart, playing in a line up that included Natasha Bedingfield and additional acts, Kieran Goss and Jack L.
JP has also opened for acts such as Chris Diffard, guitar virtuoso, Beppe Gambetta, Ollabelle and has also played with UK bassist, Andy Baker and saxophonist and former Van der Generator member, David Jackson. As an Irish artist, JP Ryan’s introduction to playing music developed from his affection for old Irish folk songs.
As an Arts graduate with a Masters in Art Therapy, JP has also worked in many social groups using music a means of expression. He has also become part of the Outbound and Noteborn music roster, with a song from ‘Dancing With Anima’ included in a recent US Motion Picture.
He was a recent winner of the AC Category of America's Open Door songwriting contest, judged by members of ASCAP, BMI and Gospel Music Association, and a finalist in "Show Me The Music” Songwriting Contest 2009. JP was also a finalist in the UK Songwriting Contest out of over 6000 entries, the contest is an international event and a highly recognised platform for emerging songwriters.
His debut album ‘Dancing With Anima’ consists of a collection of some top Irish session players including Des Moore. James Blennerhasset, Des Lacey and many more. Recorded in Ireland, (with some tracks recorded in Castalia Concert Hall, Kilkenny), and mastered in the US by renowned Mastering Engineer, Bob Katz, the album is set to be released, July 29th 2011
TOUR
JP Ryan is accompanied for much of this year’s Irish tour to promote the album, by UK bassist, Andy Baker. Andy studied at the Royal Academy of Music and as a professional Double bass player, his work has taken him all over Europe and beyond. A nominee for the prestigious Royal Philharmonic Award, Andy has worked with numerous established orchestras and artist in varying musical genres.
Literate, lyrical – an evocatively personable approach to presenting a song’
Mutant Space
‘A fine songwriter and guitarist, JP Ryan's songs are enriched by a wonderfully warm, rich breathy vocal’
File Under Good Music
‘A refreshingly classic and classy album’
Bob Katz
