Today, we’re focusing on Ryan McDavid, an independent musician from Georgetown, Guyana, who is an expert at the “slow down.” When the world seems to be spinning a bit too quickly, his music serves as a haven. It’s for that particular heavy quiet, the kind that hurts just enough to make you realize you’re still alive. Ryan gave us “RunAway (Late Night Reverb),” a song that sounds more like a midnight drive through a memory than a song, on December 14. Let’s examine why we are still thinking about this release.

A shimmering atmosphere opens the song, which quickly transforms into a pulsating, driving synth-pop groove. Although there is an instant hook, the true magic begins as soon as the vocals begin. It’s a complete “lightbulb” moment when Ryan starts singing the kind of realization that stops you cold and lets you know you’re listening to something unique. That opening line is more than just the beginning; it’s the compelling push you need to lose yourself in the remainder of the song.

This “Late Night Reverb” version of “Runaway” is fundamentally a slowed-down, eerie warning. It captures the unadulterated fear that our inner demons may eventually destroy the things we love most, and it is an appeal to a partner to save themselves from the shadows you carry. It raises the most important and terrifying question: will they stay and weather the storm with you, or will they leave after making such an honest confession? Beyond the gloom, however, the song is an essential reminder to treat ourselves with kindness. It implies that even if we feel “damaged beyond repair,” there is still hope. It is possible to create a romantic life that isn’t characterized by the fear of ruining the person holding our hand by asking for assistance and accepting vulnerability.

Ryan worked with engineer Ray Nizam to create this version, emphasizing texture and that particular type of late-night solitude. The production is deliberate, enveloping the listener in a moody cocoon that seems perfect for “Night Thoughts” or “Late Night Drive” sessions. This version of “Runaway” is the perfect companion for those hours when the streets are deserted, and your mind is racing, whether you’re creating a darkwave-inspired playlist or a melancholic indie vibe.

This track’s intentionality is what really makes it stand out. It’s obvious that Ryan didn’t just happen upon this sound; rather, he carefully considered the listener and made sure the impact of his message was delivered. The cover art is the best example of this. It appears to be a straightforward photograph of a man and woman strolling alongside each other. Upon closer inspection, however, the story takes a terrifying turn: the man is physically disappearing, seemingly draining the woman beside him of all life. The song’s central conflict, the terrifying fear that our own disintegration will inevitably pull down those we hold closest, is perfectly captured in this eerie visual metaphor. His request for her to “run” turns into a last-ditch act of love as he disappears. I don’t know what constitutes artistic perfection if that isn’t it.

This is a visceral internal warning, not just a song. The chorus turns into a frantic appeal for them to save themselves, while the verses depict an “angel” too valuable to depart. It captures the agony of pleading with someone to flee before your own darkness engulfs them, the crushing weight of being loved while feeling too broken to stay. Ryan creates a hauntingly beautiful space where the listener and the struggle can finally breathe by slowing the tempo to a crawl. It’s obvious that Guyana has a hidden treasure, and I consider myself extremely fortunate to have found it. Ryan, you have the potential to be a superstar, and I can’t wait to see what comes next.

Stream “Runaway (Late Night Reverb)” on Spotify 

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