Artist: Ronjo V; Ryan Joseph: vocals, guitars, keys; Keith Morgan: guitars, bass
EP: Ronjoism
Production: Major Label Records/5th Street Studios
Fearlessly embarking on a grippingly philosophic and emotionally haunting journey in life, as you strive to find your purpose, can be an enduring process that allows you to fully embrace who you are and where you’re headed. Showcasing the diverse and eclectic culmination of experiences and connections that have powerfully influenced your views and ambitions is the noteworthy driving force in ‘Ronjoism,’ the latest EP from the Austin-based indie rock band, Ronjo V. The group, which features Ryan Joseph on vocals, guitars and keys, and Keith Morgan on guitars and bass, effortlessly showcases the musicians’ nostalgic examination of the world, most notably through their classic alternative instrumentals and memorable production skills.
Since attending college together in Arkansas, Joseph and Morgan have been musical partners who have been determinedly driven by their shared dream of creating music in the studio. Their passion led them to move to Austin and opened 5th Street Studios. In addition to being versed engineers and producers at the label, they’re also focused on developing Ronjo V’s sound, which enthralling features tributes to such powerful influences as the Arctic Monkeys and Black Rebel Motorcycle Club.
As successful and captivating mixers, Ronjo V shows their most innovative success on their instruments, particularly through their natural control of their guitar and bass, throughout ‘Ronjoism.’ The alternative rock-infused instruments creates a moody, distinctive and subtle atmosphere for their heart-felt tracks. While Joseph and Morgan commendably showcase their musical versatility through their engaging instrumentals, their quiet and reserved vocals unfortunately and surprisingly aren’t as captivating and easy to decipher. Set against equally intriguing mellow and classic alternative guitars and drums, Joseph’s voice is so hushed that at times, it becomes overwhelmed and overtaken by the instruments he and Morgan play.
‘Ronjoism’ begins with the distinct track, ‘Dying Wish,’ which expertly features a rawness and passion in the duo’s instrumentals, particularly the enthralling drums. The musicians undoubtedly prove that they have a passion creating distinct indie and alternative songs that are reminiscent of such groundbreaking bands as Radiohead, Modest Mouse and the White Stripes. The dedication Joseph and Morgan instilled into making the opening song on their latest EP leaves listeners wishing the vocals were just as strong and riveting as their psychedelic instrumentals.
As the indie rock group’s EP promisingly progresses by its mid-point, the musicians engrossingly crafted the contemporary psych-rock entry, ‘Slo Motion.’ Featuring a classic alternative rock guitar introduction, Joseph and Morgan effortlessly transitioned into playing a mellow bass and keys throughout the song. While the musicians once again proved their impressive talents as instrumentalists, their expert guitar playing once again overpowered Joseph’s vocals. While it’s once again hard to understand most of his lyrics, the words that are intriguingly decipherable become even more persistently melodic and promising.
Ronjo V’s latest EP finally lives up to its full potential with its ending track, ‘Unfriend,’ which begins with a fascination acoustic guitar introduction that’s reminiscent of, and rivals, John Mayer’s skills. Joseph finally and commendably proves his talent and promise as a vocalist, as he sings about the pain he has experienced from the ending of an important realationship. The relatable lyrics chronicle the unfairness of having lost the important elements of that meaningful relationship, and becoming nostalgic of the connection they lost.
Courageously embarking on a riveting philosophic and emotional journey in life, as you strive to strive to achieve your aspirations, can be an fulfilling process that allows you to fully embrace who you are and where you’re headed. Showcasing the distinct culmination of experiences and connections that have strongly influenced your ideals and goals is the notable driving force in ‘Ronjoism,’ the latest EP from Ronjo V. Joseph and Morgan’s new songs effortlessly showcase their nostalgic examination of the world, most notably through their classic alternative instrumentals and memorable production skills. While the EP’s vocals unfortunately aren’t as developed and polished as their skills on the guitar, bass and keys, the Austin-based duo undoubtedly proves they have the potential to truly rival such classic rock bands as Radiohead and Modest Mouse on their future musical endeavors.
Watch the videos for ‘Dying Wish’ and ‘Slow Motion,’ and listen to ‘Dying Wish,’ ‘Slo Motion’ and ‘Unfriend,’ from Ronjo V’s ‘Ronjoism’ EP, below. For more information on the Austin-based indie alternative rock band, visit its official website, as well as its Twitter, Facebook and Instagram pages.
Written by: Karen Benardello