Limerick solo act The Tatty Truth aka Des Ryan have released their debut album, Who Is This Man? We asked the BIG questions . . .
Ryan was heavily involved in the Limerick music scene in the mid-90s, working with Pumpdwellers, recording at Xeric Studios with Pearse Gilmore producing and accompanied on drums by school friend Fergal Lawlor of The Cranberries.
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He has recently returned to Limerick after travelling and set up a studio where he recorded his new album.
Tell us three things about yourself?
I have a debut album coming out on October 14th. I approached John Davis to master it and was pleasantly surprised when he agreed to work on it with me. He's mastered some of the most important records ever released.
Over the years I’ve collaborated with some of the best drummers in the world. I worked in the studio with Fergal Lawler from the Cranberries, I played live with Chris Pederson from Campervan Beethovens and on this record I worked with Dublin’s Paul Shanahan.
When I’m not playing music, I spend my time researching cyber security.
How would you describe your music?
Thought provoking lyrics set to evocative, sometimes tense but often gentle soundtrack.
Who are your musical inspirations?
The Smiths would be the band that reached into my subconscious in my formative years, and they have stayed in my heart. Nick Cave would feature strongly on my playlist. Jeff Tweedy and Wilco would be another big influence. Sylvian for his sound textures and improvisation.
What are you most looking forward to post-lockdown?
Travel and gigs. Lockdown has suited me in many ways, and it allowed me re-focus on the important things in my life, but I know I can’t live without travel and gigs. As soon as I can, I will be on the road.
What’s your favourite song right now?
I’m really enjoying My Father’s Daughter by Olivia Vedder. It was written by Glen Hansard and her father Eddie Vedder. It has a lovely vibe and her voice is very soothing.
Favourite lyric of all time?
Nick Cave is a masterful lyricist. You can tell he spends hours poring over his choice of words and it’s an area of my own music that I put a lot of work into. "Past this square, past the bridge, past the mills, past the stacks, on a gathering storm comes a tall handsome man, In a dusty black coat with a red right hand." So descriptive. You can picture the scene immediately and journey into the song with him.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life what would it be?
Troy by Sinead O’Connor. A masterpiece on so many levels.
Where can people find your music/more information?
I have two singles streaming on all major platforms and my album, Who Is This Man?, is out now. You can visit my website or follow me on Twitter @TheTattyTruth_
