The first time I heard Riun Garner‘s music was at a Sofar Sounds show in Vancouver. Equipped with just his guitar, Garner and his songs shone in that live performance, and it beautifully showcased his natural ability to tell a story through his songwriting.
As Garner prepares to release his first full-length album, Nice To Meet Ya, we’ve been getting glimpses of what to expect from his debut record and how his storytelling further comes to life through thoughtful production elements. The title track brings the listener in on bittersweet reflections of a final road trip between two lovers. There’s a sense of nostalgia in the lyrics, further brought to life by a subtle but evanescent quality on the track—the result of part of the track being recorded on an old analog reel-to-reel tape machine.
Read ahead to learn more about Riun’s music in his own words, his favourite music venue in Vancouver, and the last concert he attended.
Q: Introduce yourself!
Riun Garner: Hi! My name is Riun Garner and I’m an indie folk/rock singer-songwriter and actor based in Vancouver, BC. My debut full-length album Nice To Meet Ya comes out on Friday, June 23rd, and I’ll be hosting my debut album release party on Thursday, June 22nd at the Fox Cabaret. Doors open at 7pm and tickets are by donation!
Q: How would you describe your music to a first-time listener?
RG: I went into making this record wanting it to feel nostalgic, bittersweet, and something timeless. There’s a truthful emotionality and earnestness that I hope invites the listener to reflect on their own life. It’s folky, but modern with lots of catchy melodies and alternative rock influences.
Q: What is your favourite music venue in Vancouver?
RG: The Orpheum is such beautiful venue and it would be amazing to play there one day.
Q: If someone is listening to you for the first time, which song would you recommend they start with?
RG: My new song “Should’ve Known” is a fun one especially for the summer. I’d recommend watching the music video for it on YouTube too! It’s super quirky and cute and was just nominated for Best Music Video at The Leo Awards
Q: What was the last live show you attended?
RG: Leith Ross at The Hollywood Theatre. They put on a really great show and it’s always inspiring to see fellow Canadians doing great things!
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Learn more about Riun Garner and upcoming shows on his website here.
Riun be playing a show in Vancouver on Thursday, June 22 at Fox Cabaret to celebrate the release of his debut album Nice To Meet Ya alongside David Vertesi and Kylie V. Tickets are by donation and you can find details here!
