At his core, Tyler Lyle is an old soul from his rural hometown of Carrollton, Georgia.
His voice has the sultry candor of age, with lyrics that are both original and boldly charming. Tyler's husky, impressive vocals have already given way to three finished products: Some Songs EP, the online only Bare EP, and most recently, Notes From The Parade. With the use of a dizzying array of instruments -- trumpets, banjo, flugelhorn, cymbals, glockenspiel, guitar, and harmonica -- Tyler's latest release emerges as a soundtrack for life. As such, his bluesy tracks suggest a slower, more earnest time. For an audience hungry for more than just catchy lyrics, Tyler Lyle appeals as a genuine artist.
Tyler's strong sense of community plays a key part in his musical integrity. He spent the bulk of 2008 abroad in Prague and in Paris teaching English, an expedition that helped serve as an outlet for self-discovery. And while Tyler has been roaming around for the past year or two, he's also been busy at work on his craft. That's where Notes From The Parade comes in, as a study in "motion." As one of the album's more sentimental tracks ("Pinewood Chests") maintains, "Time moves steady along / it's a similar tune for a different song." It's his clever lyrics and distinct, striking voice that will stay with listeners long after the song has ended.
Still, there's always a sense of humor about Tyler. His songs are both parts smart and tangible. He doesn't take himself too seriously, which is why listeners can continuously identify with Tyler's honest nature. In "A Secret (About Secrets)," Tyler tackles the human spirit, a weighty subject that he handles with care. He sings, "But I'm just a blind man taking pictures in the dark, trying to open up my arms," and continues, "and I'll put my pictures on the wall for you to see, but you're blind like me." It's with his own brand of credible irony that Tyler tells a story with each and every song. He escapes predictability, though, instead touching upon familiar themes with remarkably diverse lines.
Tyler plays music because he loves it -- because it's to be enjoyed, respected, and shared. He keeps that in mind each time he takes the stage, whether he's touring in amorous Paris or hectic New York. Even as the scenery changes, Tyler is always himself. His instrumental influence is reminiscent of Sufjan Stevens, mixed with lyrical hints of Andrew Bird and Conor Oberst. And like his fellow folksy singer-songwriters, Tyler Lyle continues to evolve and improve with time.