By Megan King
While most 17-year-olds are worried about their next big geometry test or who they’re going to ask to prom, Columbia recording artist Kyle Riabko has bigger things to think about – like how to promote his new full length album, Before I Speak. This past year has found the Canadian native opening for such notable musicians as Maroon 5, John Mayer and Robert Randolph, and now he’s ready to for the big time.
There’s no denying that Riabko has talent that far exceeds his 17 years. While this teenager has written and plays guitar for the whole album, what’s really noteworthy is that he also plays the organ, keyboards, bass and drums for nearly every song, as well. Yet, it’s not just his instrumental talent that stands out: Riabko’s groovy beats, expressive lyrics and soulful voice tell the story of a young man with a truly old soul. Influences like Stevie Wonder, Buddy Guy and other soulful blues musicians are apparent throughout, yet his childish and fun side is also displayed on this debut album.
Songs like “Do You Right” and “Miss Behavin” offer sexy lyrics and funky hooks, while others like “Good Time” and What Did I Get Myself Into” showcase Riabko’s more bluesy song writing style. In addition, the jazzy “Half As Much” slows down the tempo of the record, but allows him to display his expressive and soulful vocal ability. “Paranoid” and “Chemistry” give Riabko a chance to rock out, with indie chick Liz Phair offering background vocals. Lyrically notable songs in Before I Speak come from tunes like “Teach Me,” with lines like ‘Teach me how / How to worry / Teach me how / I need your help / Teach me to live / teach me to teach myself.’
Another highlight on the album is Riabko’s truly excellent guitar playing. With a number of guitar solos on the album (like in “Carry On” and “Waiting”), it’s almost impossible to believe that these improvised guitar lines have come from the hands of a 17-year-old kid.
Comparisons to artists like John Mayer or Johnny Lang are inevitable, yet even with a similar guitar playing style like Mayer or vocal quality like Lang, it’s clear that Kyle Riabko has a sound all his own. Before I Speak is a solid album from a talented new artist, and if he can produce such substantial music at 17, there’s no telling what the future will hold for him.