While doubling as guitarist for Montreal/Toronto indie rock band The Dress Whites, Ryan Shearing began gaining recognition as a songwriter and solo artist in his own right. Performing in a stripped down setting, many of his songs move with the feel of short stories played over a fingerpicked ballad or a bluegrass stomp. Drawing comparisons to Nebraska-era Bruce Springsteen and early Tom Waits, his ragged vocal delivery ties each song together with simple and heartbreaking melodies.

Released in 2007, Ryan's debut album “By The Stairs” is collection of travelling songs and drinking ballads produced by Gern f. of The United Steel Workers of Montreal and recorded at UrbanHanded Works Studio. The album features Ryan on vocals/guitar/piano, with guest spots from members of the United Steel Workers of Montreal and the Dress Whites.

Most recently, Ryan finds himself living in Hamilton with his wife and small children, trying to finish a song about a robot.

#5 BEST SINGER/SONGWRITER - Montreal Mirror's Best of Montreal 2007 #9 BEST OVERALL MUSICAL ACT - Montreal Mirror's Best of Montreal 2007.
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