Monahan

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What a voice! It's funny how Connecticut transplant Ryan Monahan opens his mouth to sing, but it's the jaws of the audience members that drop. Fans of any Buckley-inspired crooner will find much to love in his rich, powerful, yet delicately sad, vocals - think Jimmy Gnecco of Ours without all the overbearing darkness. Says Monahan of his songwriting, it's "music overcome by doubt; doubt overcome by music."

If you have no use for the sophomoric jingle-jangle of most indie rockers, here is a band offering finely crafted beauty and depth. The rotating cast of backing musicians weave smart melodies and hooks augmented by an eclectic array of instruments and lush arrangements. Since settling in Athens in February, Monahan has continued to reach out to new collaborators and is currently recording with David Barbe. Welcome Ryan to town at www.ryanmonahan.com.

Next show: Friday, Sept. 19 at Tasty World (tentative).

Michelle Gilzenrat