Ricky Byrd: NYC Made And Loving Every Minute

 

Ricky Byrd has been doing the rock and roll thing for a long time, starting with Boston's Susan, who made one forgotten record in 1979, and then having an extended career as a Blackheart backing Joan Jett. His solo career started with a live record 25 years ago, and continued with only four additional records since. Now we have "NYC Made" which is just out. And man, did it push all my buttons.

Let me get this out of the way first. Lyrically, these songs can be a tad sentimental, even a bit cloying at times. But here's the great news: Ricky sells it like a motherf**ker. I bought out the store.

Ricky is a good guy. He's a funny guy. A talented guy. He once told a story at the shop about how he got Cheap Trick's Tom Petersson to play bass on a few songs. The late, great Sal Maida asked, "Did he use the 8-string bass?" Byrd said, "No. I could only afford the four." I loved him for that line ever since.

Every song is a trip through the glory days of rock and roll, A.M. radio and growing up, with singalong choruses, "bop-shoo-bop" backing vocals, and street corner harmonies. It's a collection of rock and roll memories put to song, with Ricky's influences shining bright. I heard Dion, the New York Dolls, the Beach Boys and the E Street Band in every song.

It's hard not to get lost in this record. As someone who is NYC made, I can relate to almost every track. Your miles may vary, of course. But if you are a music lover, I guarantee something will push your buttons, as well.