On this episode of First Spin, Hayden welcomes Ryan Taylor Price, a rising indie-folk artist whose debut album The Axe & The Tree marks him as a songwriter to watch. Blending lyrical honesty with lush, cinematic arrangements, Ryan’s music feels both intimate and expansive—like a diary entry set against a widescreen backdrop.

Ryan shares the story behind The Axe & The Tree, exploring the personal experiences and emotional landscapes that shaped its songs. He reflects on the role of storytelling in his work, the balance between vulnerability and craftsmanship, and how he translates raw feeling into melodies that stick. Hayden and Ryan dig into the themes of resilience, love, and transformation that thread through the record, and how making the album became a process of self-discovery.

Along the way, Hayden and Ryan discuss the challenges of creating music in today’s landscape: finding authenticity in an age of constant content, staying grounded in the creative process, and connecting with listeners who are searching for something real.

Whether you’re already a fan of The Axe & The Tree or just discovering Ryan’s work, this episode offers a candid look at the heart of a songwriter building something meaningful. It’s a conversation full of warmth, honesty, and inspiration—perfect for anyone who believes in the power of music to tell stories that last.

Songs featured in this episode:

Old & Crazy

Angel Poets

Reckless

Half-Written Songs

Least She Deserves

Storm We Weathered

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Thanks for listening—see you next week.