Ryan Beaver brought his signature sound and fresh material to Philadelphia’s Milkboy this past Saturday. He’s got a voice that’s almost bigger than the venue could hold – on current single “Dark,” which closed the set, Beaver had an electric energy that paired perfectly with the stormy lyric and could easily work on a big stage to a big audience.
Beaver drew heavily on his new record, Rx, throughout the evening, pulling from his older catalog for songs like 2008 title track “Under The Neons” or 2011’s “Nobody Wants You To Be Alone.” From the new album too, Beaver demonstrated great range; “Gravedigger” was bluesy with electric crunch, “Fast” was both dynamic and jaunty, and “Vegas” channeled a more classic country sound.
No one is The Boss – no one will ever walk the streets of Philadelphia with that power and presence. Yet the blues influence in the music and the powerful runs in Beaver’s voice inspire comparisons to the iconic New Jersey rocker. “When This World Ends” specifically recalls a Springsteen or Tom Petty vibe.
Count me as disappointed that he didn’t play “If I Had A Horse,” a standout on the album, but even so, Beaver absolutely delivers. For those catching him in support of Rx, get ready for a great vocal and a tight groove.