Thomas Rhyant recorded his debut solo album, Love Lifted Me,  in about forty-five minutes of first-takes. I guess when you’re this good, you just walk in the studio and make a record. 

I had the good fortune to hear Thomas perform at Newport Folk Festival last summer, as part of the Spiritual Helpline Gospel Revue. Thomas played guitar and sang in the group that also featured Sister Lena Mae Perry, The Union, Phil Cook and the Guitarheels. And when he sang–well, I’m not sure I’ve seen people that surprised and awed in a long while. He can hit falsetto notes that are simply out of reach for the vast majority of singers.

Love Lifted Me is a spare, gorgeous record. Most songs are just Thomas and an acoustic guitar. There’s no hiding on this album, and Thomas’s voice comes through so strong and pure. Check out our conversation and make sure you pick up Love Lifted Me on bandcamp.

Photo Credit: Ken Templeton