The Forestburg Concert Series welcomed Canadian singer/songwriter Ryan McMahon to the stage on Saturday, March 23, for an entertaining evening of song and stories.
McMahon gave a nod to an earlier appearance as part of the Daysland Concert Series in 2023, and said he was delighted to be in Forestburg as part of his latest tour, called ‘Leave no town un-toured.’
McMahon says he and pianist Joel Spillette would be performing 21 shows in 25 days on the current tour.
McMahon has a beautiful tone and a powerful voice, and his songs are deeply personal and often moving.
He opened Saturday’s performance with a song called, “Lost and Found,” a song that would easily be at home on any radio broadcast. Other standouts included ‘Sometime’s Life’s Amazing,’ and ‘A Song Can Change Your Mind.’
McMahon’s music is a wonderful mix of folk, rock, and country that compliments his original lyrics. Spillette is also an accomplished musician, and his playing was a perfect accompaniment to McMahon’s singing and guitar.
In between songs, McMahon talks about his life experiences, and jokes with the audience, creating a truly interactive and entertaining experience for all.
McMahon has six studio albums under his belt, and also performs with his ‘other’ band, Lion Bear Fox.
In a blog entry made just before his latest tour, McMahon said, “I need this tour probably more than any one audience member does this time.
“It’s time for me to get to work; leave everything out onstage every night – maybe make you laugh a little; maybe even make ya cry if you’re into that sort of thing.”
Meant to be the third act of the Forestburg series, McMahon ended up as the second concert performance when extreme cold forced the cancellation of the Treblemakers on Jan. 13; that concert has been postponed until May 11.
McMahon also gave a shoutout to sound man Tom Lichak, calling him the “best sound man in Alberta.” He said, “I was so happy to see Tom when I walked in the door, and you’re so lucky to have him.”
Next up in the series will be the Canadian Country Music Legends, on Saturday, April 13.
Leslie Cholowsky
Editor