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New Times Broward Palm Beach's Best Young Guy Ryan Alexander recently spent some time at Fort Lauderdale-based C&I Studios to record a live, acoustic version of "James Kent." If the name sounds familiar, it's because Kent is the focus of the article Courtney Hambright recently penned about Alexander for City Link.
Anyhow, with a high-profile gig coming up on August 6 as part of Art/Heart at the Green Room, it's a fine time to delve into Alexander's new chapter as a "solo" artist. Much like his past work, this is material with a message.
This story of Kent, a homeless man that Alexander took into his home, is something that brings out mixed emotions from the area singer. Alternating between calling the man a "son of a bitch" and a "best friend," the tale unfolds about how the man's life seemed to take on importance to the rest of his family only after he had passed away -- especially when it came to dealing with his funeral expenses. Alexander shows a bit of frustration as he recounts this true-to-life experience in song. In spite of the sad subject matter, it's a sparsely beautiful song and fits well with just the acoustic guitar for backing.
Live at C&I Studios: Ryan Alexander "James Kent" from C&I Studios on Vimeo.
Ryan Alexander performs at Art/Heart. With John Ralston and Shanobot. 9 p.m. Saturday, August 6, at Green Room, 109 SW Second Ave., Fort Lauderdale. Tickets cost $5. Click here.
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