Poems & Non-Fiction is the debut album by Newcastle’s Ruth Lyon—a major waymark for a powerful songwriter who weaves deeply evocative narratives and potent meditations, with an artistry that balances delicacy and strength.  Forged by her experiences as a disabled woman and a life-long sense of otherness, she explores the beautiful mess of existence, challenges social norms and ignites a journey towards self-acceptance, empowerment and perhaps most importantly, hope. “ I have surprised myself with the raw honesty in these songs and I hope these stories inspire healing and growth ”. 

 

Working with acclaimed producer John Parish (PJ Harvey, Aldous Harding) and influenced by artists like Adrienne Lenker, Fiona Apple and Moondog, the songs are rich with poetic nuance and the unconventional insight of a young life lived to capacity—a mesmerizing blend of analogue and angular indie-folk that gives as much attention to silence as sound, with understated yet muscular grooves. Shimmering between the abstract, the archetypal and the naked truth, meaning lingers just beneath the surface, daring listeners to both reach out and dig deep; to give emotion a solid, tangible shape. 

 

Coming off the back of concerts from across the world—most notably performing at New York City Hall where she received the prestigious Danny Award, Brighton’s Great Escape international showcase and Glastonbury Festival—as well as receiving the flagship PPL Momentum Grant and being included on the Power 100, that named her among the most influential disabled people in the UK, Poems & Non-Fiction, set for release this year, promises to further cement Lyon’s reputation as a singular voice in the contemporary music landscape; one that dares to challenge, comfort, and captivate in equal measure.