The sophomore EP from Bridget Rian, Screaming at the Stars, is an audacious collection of songs Rian has crafted into a harrowing coming of age story. With her emotive lyrics, Rian peels back the layers of years we’ve lived and loves we’ve lost to reveal that in the end, we all play the villain or the savior in someone’s story, even our own.
Rian once again joined forces with Producer Paul Moak (Caitlyn Smith, Liz Longley, Goodbye June) and recorded the 5-song project at The Smoakstack in Nashville, TN. Screaming at the Stars showcases Rian’s undeniable strength as a compelling storyteller through song, which American Songwriter Magazine cited as being, “touchingly beautiful” and “a testament to the power of music.” From her 2021 debut Talking To Ghosts (EP) to the 2022 release of Screaming at the Stars, there is a seamless evolution present in Rian’s unique sound that has solidified her capability of blending classic Americana nuances and her ethereal vocals with strong elements of indie rock and alternative pop.
“I released my first few songs as an introduction of myself to the world. I got to be creative and met many dear collaborators. As they say, I started to find myself… my sound and my voice,” says Rian. “With this new batch of songs I hope that I can break down some of those assumptions that you thought you knew about me as a listener. I hope that helps us get closer and build a genuine relationship.”
Following her debut, Rian received notable DSP support as the Featured Cover Artist for Tidal’s “Rising: Folk” Playlist and placements on Pandora’s “AMP: Fresh Cuts” Radio and Apple Music's "New Country" Playlist. Rian has also been featured on NPR, American Songwriter Magazine, New Noise Magazine, and was selected as an Official Showcasing Artist for SXSW 2022.
Rian grew up on Long Island, NY, and began writing songs at the age of 11 after her mother bought her a guitar for her 10th birthday. “When I was young, about 2 years old, my mom would often listen to Frente!’s Marvin the Album when we were in the car. That could’ve been my first steady introduction to alternative songwriting,” says Rian. “In high school, my choir teacher pulled me aside and showed me badass women singer-songwriters like Fiona Apple, Tori Amos, Feist, Ingrid Michaelson, and Sara Bareilles. That was it, my life was changed and that’s when I started to develop my musical taste and become addicted to songwriting,” says Rian.
In the summer of 2019, Rian made the move to Nashville, TN to focus on her career as an artist and continues to write, perform and release new music. Screaming at the Stars released on September 23, 2022 and is available on all major digital streaming platforms. Follow @bridget_rian on Instagram and visit www.bridgetrian.com for all of the latest updates and info about upcoming live shows.
Press Quotes:
“Rian was not only able to craft a touchingly beautiful song, but also was able to find a whole new appreciation for life… a testament to the power of music.” — American Songwriter Magazine
“[…]on Talking To Ghosts, Bridget Rian wraps the listener in a blanket of haunted emotions and doesn’t let you escape.” — Mother Church Pew
"...a dark and delicate debut.” — New Noise Magazine
['Talking To Ghosts'] is a dark and mysterious collection, Rian will keep you guessing what’s next.” — Women of Country
“The combination of soft acoustics, emotive lyrics, and expressive vocals draws listeners into the solemn atmosphere. There’s a painful, yet beautiful, sadness that lingers in the air.” — Glasse Factory
"Rian's pensive lyrics and soothing vocals work seamlessly as a match for the entrancing acoustics.” — Music Mecca
“Rian’s performance is front, center, and emotionally devastating.” — Adobe & Teardrops