ONE OF the finest musicians and songwriters to ever emerge from Co. Wexford will be launching his debut studio album in Wexford Arts Centre on September 14.

Joey Ryan is one of the most versatile songwriters on the current Irish scene. The image invoked by the term singer-songwriter is usually one of an introverted, self indulgent muso who yearns for attention but isn’t comfortable dealing with it.

However, Ryan tends to break the mould. His songwriting is well rounded and varied. His persona, while certainly tipping a hat towards the blues, is that of a musician who is comfortable in his craft and knows exactly where he wants to go.

The Wexford date will be the first of an 18-date Irish tour which will see the 20-year-old visit some of the country’s finest and most renowned music venues.

Ryan has spent the last 18 months recording under the shadow of the Sugar Loaf Mountains in Silverwood Studios.

The result of that work is ‘Morning Will Come Soon’ – his debut studio album.

It proved to be two years well spent and Ryan’s writing has matures and expanded while his subject matter is reflective.

Despite his relatively young age, Ryan, is a very experienced musician – having gigged constantly since he was 15. Performing as a solo act, in a trio or with a full band the forthcoming gig will see him take to the Arts Centre stage in the latter format. His special guests on the night will be The Man Whom and Alan Byrne – two exemplary Wexford singer-songwriters in their own right.

To put Ryan’s credibility in perspective he has already shared stages with people like Jack L, Kelly Joe Phelps, Mick Flannery, John Spillane and Duke Special to name but a few.

Following a move to Cork to pursue a continuing degree in music at UCC.

Describing his album as ‘dark, romantic, rock music’ Ryan might be doing himself a disservice because the audience in Wexford is sure to be enthralled by one of the most intriguing collections of work to be performed in the town in a very long time.

The lead single from the album, ‘Nothing To Show’ has received critical acclaim and some much valued airplay.

The album also features the formidable talent of some of Ireland’s finest musicians including Johnny Boyle (drums), Aongus Ralston (bass), Clodagh Kearney (backing vocals) and Rory McCarthy (keyboards).

The album was produced by Gavin Ralston.