Album Review: New Lost Ages by Tyler Ramsey

In the delicate balance between nostalgia and exploration, Tyler Ramsey unveils his latest project, New Lost Ages. Ramsey crafts an album that is both introspective and expansive, inviting listeners into a dreamlike realm where time seems to slow with each strum of the guitar. 

The former lead guitarist from Band of Horses, made a conscious shift away from mainstream stages in 2017, choosing to embrace a simpler and slower lifestyle in Western North Carolina. This profound change has not only allowed him to reconnect with his fans but has also propelled him into a larger creative space deep into the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 

The new album's palette is rich and refined, with Ramsey's intricate fingerstyle guitar work serving as the guiding force. Lyrically, the album delves into themes of introspection, reflection, and the inexorable passage of time. Each track unfolds like a chapter in a novel, with melodies that ebb and flow, carrying the audience through peaks and valleys of what life can feel like sometimes.

Ramsey weaves honest narratives into his songs, capturing the very essence of life as we know it. He stated about the album, "I try to write songs that I believe every word of. I don't want to ever dance around something or have to sing lyrics that don't feel like the truth to me." The authenticity in Ramsey's songwriting resonates deeply, creating a profound connection that convinces us of the truth embedded in his lyrics.

The title track, "New Lost Ages," showcases Ramsey's ability to evoke profound emotions through his music, creating an immersive experience that resonates long after the final note fades away. The raw lyrics, "Do you think there'll be a world to live in when these kids have kids? And would they want to live together in this world we've built?" raise questions that prompt us to ponder the sustainability and quality of life within our present surroundings. They encourage a closer examination of the lyrics, urging us to delve into the underlying messages

.Leading up to the album release, Ramsey released "These Ghosts," which carries simplicity in its lyrics that merges the specters of our past with the grim of the present. The track seamlessly blends the intimate narrative style of folk with the energetic pulse of rock, creating a fusion of two genres we all love. Accompanying the release of "These Ghosts," Ramsey unveiled a music video that elevates the song into visual artistry. The video, skillfully directed and filmed by the talented Parker J Pfister, serves as a captivating visual counterpart to the haunting melodies. 

Upon thorough listening to the album multiple times, it becomes evident that two tracks shine particularly bright, aside from the previously released singles. "We Were A Small Town" and "Poisonous Summer" emerge as standout pieces, each offering its own unique beauty and charm. Despite their contrasting styles, both songs captivate with their distinct allure and emotional resonance.

Ramsey's masterful blend of indie-folk and rock influences creates an audio landscape that resonates with authenticity and emotional depth. With "New Lost Ages," Ramsey not only invites us to immerse ourselves in his world of music but also prompts us to reflect on the timeless themes of life. It's an album that lingers in the mind long after the final chord fades, leaving a profound impression on the listener's heart and soul.

For those who cherish music that echoes deeply within, urging contemplation on the intricacies of existence, we wholeheartedly endorse this album.

Fortunately for those of us in the DMV, the opportunity awaits to witness Tyler Ramsey live on February 20th at Pearl Street Warehouse, where his songs will be brought to life by the man himself. 

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To learn more about Tyler Ramsey, please see the following web resources:

• Webpage
• Facebook
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• YouTube
• TIDAL
• Spotify
• Soundcloud