Blyan, Deon

Websites:  http://www.deonblyan.com/
Origin: Edmonton, Alberta - Calgary, Alberta
Biography:

Deon Blyan is different. Depending on the format he chooses to play his songs for you in, he changes. That's a part of the charm, because he can fit to the surroundings of the venue and to the focus of the show he's playing. He's always sure to please.

When he plays solo the songs take on a more deliberate and yet patient delivery. His voice rises and falls and focuses on telling you his story. He'll probably ask you questions from the stage, or at least ask you to ask him questions at anytime. Emotion and melody trump everything.

When Deon brings his drummer and bass player things get lively, he keeps it loose but delivers the songs with a bit more urgency. He wants you to dance but understands if you'd rather tap your foot where you are instead. It's a bit rawer in this format with clanging telecaster chords, deep bass and driving drums weaving together. Emotion and melody still trump, but the emotion is different, it's exciting and youthful and looks hard to contain.

When the full band is out with Deon you get the bombast of the album versions of songs. Blended harmonies and stunning lead guitar lift the songs to a different level. You start to see the craft of the songs clearer; the arrangements come in to focus. The band leaves an impression, the energy and emotion are still there, but it takes on yet another dimension. The melodies, rather than anchor the songs, float above the music and communicate the stories found there.