While he’s known best for his interpretative playing of traditional acoustic blues, jazz and old time music, audiences can’t help but notice the influence that Northern living has had on his music. For the past 10 years McNally has called Whitehorse, YK his home.
His first album Down Home (2012), was recorded live by CBC North and received a feature on the popular radio show Saturday Night Blues, hosted by Holgar Peterson.
Originally from rural Quebec, Ryan first discovered jazz and blues by uncovering a huge collection of ‘78 records that belonged to his grandfather. Then, as a teen, his curiosity for the sound and history anchored his love for the genres and it’s only grown stronger since.
So much so, that Ryan headed south for a winter in 2015 to New Orleans, LA to write his second album Steppin’ Down South. The album captures the sound of hillbilly blues and jug band jazz. This album is saturated with the sounds and rhythm of New Orleans streets. Bob Hamilton at Old Crow Studios in Whitehorse, Yukon, recorded it live off the floor in 2016.
In 2017 Steppin’ Down South was nominated for Blues Artist Of The Year at the Western Canadian Music Awards (WCMA). That year Ryan also had the privilege and opportunity to perform for Prince William and Princess Kate during their visit to the Yukon.
Ryan is set to release his third album, "Listen Up" in May 2019. And it is sure to impress. While keeping true to his inspiration of blues he is now incorporating the calypso rhythm. This new work is a great marriage of country blues, calypso and traditional jazz. With compelling lyrics and a beat that will audiences of any age out on the dance floor.
Everywhere they perform from Dawson Music Fest to Northern Lights Bluegrass Fest, Markham Jazz Festival to Orangeville Blues Fest, Ryan McNally & the MessaRounders are a hit!
