Stereo Six: Synth-Pop Group RYAL Share Their Noteworthy Influences

New York’s RYAL deserves credit for lots of things – the music, the attitude, the passion. Joining us for this Stereo Six session with details on their latest release, I’ll pass this one off to the synth-pop pairing and let their answers speak for themselves, along with some additional background per their PR team.

“With a penchant for synths and a gift for storytelling with soundscapes, alt-pop duo RYAL (Jacque Ryal and Aaron Nevezie) exist somewhere in between the new age Young Ejecta or Furniteur energy with the classic, ethereal artistry of Gary Numan. In the past few months, the duo released “Closure,” which explored relationship dynamics during the pandemic, followed by a second single dedicated to lead singer Jacque Ryal’s college roommate who unfortunately passed from COVID-19 earlier this year. Their latest single “Thunder (Solo on the Dancefloor)” has a new video to pair starring actor Sam Given as her late friend. It’s a tribute that is worth the watch.”

“RYAL was kind enough to share a few of their noteworthy musical influences with one wildcard. Watch their new music video for “Thunder (Solo on the Dancefloor)” below and stay tuned for more releases from RYAL in 2021.”

1. Tame Impala – Currents (2015, Modular)

“We immediately loved this record. The songs, the textures, the freedom in this record really moves us.”

“The lyrics in ‘Let It Happen’ are glorious.  This line is everything: ‘If my take off fails, make up some other story, but if I never come back, tell my mother I’m sorry.’ It’s so good!”

2. Thom Yorke – ANIMA (2019, Unsustainabubble)

“One of Aaron’s favorites is Radiohead and Thom Yorke. Aaron introduced this record to me earlier this year and we can’t get enough of it. Produced by Nigel Godrich and developed through live performances and studio work, I have been trying to learn the track ‘Twist’ – just not obvious.”

Artwork for the album’s Ryal lists in this Stereo Six

3. Little Dragon – Nabuma Rubberband (2014, Seven Four Entertainment)

“Little Dragon is definitely one of our biggest influences and inspirations. Aaron and I got to see them live at the Apollo Theater and while there were sound issues I don’t think I have danced that hard in a long time. A dream is to open for them. Hoping they take us along post-pandemic.”

4. Björk – Debut (1993, One Little Indian and Elektra Entertainment)

“A classic but a must on our list. Her bravery in lyrics and sound exploration are perfection. The early days of Björk really speak to us in our work.”

5. Portishead – Live at Roseland (1998, Go! Beat)

“Beth Gibbons is always a reference for me as a vocalist. She also gives zero fucks on that stage and that is just one of the most wonderful things to see. Highly recommend this live record if you have not listened to it before.”

6. Curveball: Suzanne Ciani – Buchla Concerts 1975 (2016, Finders Keepers)

“Another Aaron find! In his research and deep dive into Buchla synths he discovered Ciani’s Buchla Concert 1975. This record is literally one of the most beautiful and meditative records I have ever heard. It is one of those records that you can put on and listen to on repeat, finding new elements each time around. Do yourself a favor and give it a go. You will thank us later. Also if you don’t know what a Buchla is take a look at Aaron’s here.”

Artwork for “Thunder (Solo on the Dancefloor)” by RYAL