It is indicative of the visceral spirituality of Ryan Ahlwardt’s music that a southern spiritual (Swing Low, Sweet Chariot) should frame his formidable musical talents on this more than any other of the eight tracks on The Malibu EP, the artist’s second recording (www.RyanSongs.com).
His effortlessly soaring tenor is undergirded by a more than capable, trombony baritone that can project an edgy rawness when necessary, but never does so gratuitously. That is to say, artistry orients and encases Ahlwardt’s natural musicality. At least on this CD, the latter never outruns the former.
The result is a deeply satisfying indie music project that lifts the spirit and rocks the feet in just about equal measure. Ahlwardt is a force to be reckoned with, whether caught in a Bloomington, Indiana bar or leading hundreds of teens at a Christian retreat. Difficult to pigeon-hole, he sings from the heart with a textured nuance that has versatility as its middle name.
Quite in contrast to his first CD, the artist here explores his own folk approach to some old hymns. The result is fresh. But just so you don’t put him on that shelf and keep him there, he tosses of a finale on the bonus track that’s an ode to B-Town (University of Indiana’s Bloomington) with panache that will have every resident of central Indiana grinning.
Expect more from Ryan Alhwardt.
Canter Bridge 
I could not have described this collection of tunes as well. Indeed, this guy DOES sing from the heart, and I AM grinning, having made the trip to B-town many times myself. Hearing him express his artistry is a joy, but hearinging facets of his sprituality expressed in his unique musical style is a blessing. I’m very pleased the Caddy has such a great sound system..it does Him, and him, justice.