Derek Ryan has been leading the charge for the past ten years in the new wave of country music that has swept everywhere from parish halls to arenas and from Moy to Melbourne. He has released 10 albums and scores of singles. This November he brought early festive cheer to his many fans with the release of his first Christmas album.
In what has been a challenging and anxious year, the ten-track timeless collection ‘The Road to Christmas’ is hoped to bring pleasant escapism from the big C (COVID 19) which has caused turmoil in people’s lives and seen the cancellation of live music events. Even Santa needs cheering up this year.
When the world was in lockdown, Derek spent the time writing the opening track and arranging the other classics on the cd which was produced by Mark Kingswood and recorded in the Kingswood Studios in the UK and Piccolo studios in Canada.
“This festive collection of music includes treasured Christmas songs we all know and can sing along to,” said Derek.
“It was one of the most exciting and fulfilling recording experiences I have had despite not being able to be in the studio with the musicians due to social distancing practices. However, it came as light relief from what we all have had to endure this year and the changes we had to make.”
“I hope it will provide the perfect antidote to the sometimes frenetic pace and stress of the festive season. And I hope this collection will remind everyone of why we all love Christmas.”
This Christmas Eve may be the first year since his country music career started that Derek will not be able to sing in his home village church with brother Adrian and father Pat. The family combo rendition of hymns and carols was one of their family highlights, but this year, if restrictions are still in place, it may be the new cd that will be playing in St Lazerians Church, Drumphea, Co. Carlow.
Derek delivers his Christmas present for fans that includes a mix of contemporary and classic versions of ‘Last Christmas’, ‘Winter Wonderland’, and ‘Blue Christmas’ amongst the 10 seasonal chestnuts in his inimitable style.
‘The Road to Christmas’ was released on the 27th of November and is available from all the usual download and streaming platforms.
