Feel-good, upbeat, lyrically positive five-piece South African acoustic rock outfit. Following sold-out shows in 2009, On The Edge maintains the upbeat nature of the Ryan Calder’s debut album, Better Days. Front man and songwriter Ryan’s philosophy is that the band’s show and the music should leave an audience feeling like life is worth living. “The morning after our show, we want people to wake up humming a happy tune,” he says. “I write music with a show in mind. Diversity in terms of rhythm, tempo and sound is something I think about a lot.” And there is plenty to look forward to with the band’s new album, On The Edge. “The sound, the quality, the depth of lyrics,” cites vocalist Tamlyn. “It brings a lot of contrast and diversity to the table,” adds pianist Jon Calder. “The songs have many different influences, both in terms of their conception in the songwriting phase and during the actual recording process. The album required much sacrifice and a lot of effort. But we know it is worth it.” The air of positivity in both the music and lyrics is something which has made the group one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most popular musical acts. “We have fun,” says drummer Rudi Engelbrecht. “The approach has always been one of having the room to enjoy yourself. After all, who would want to listen to a band bored with themselves?” “The best thing about the RCB is the family spirit. It’s absolutely amazing,” says bassist Roberto Hemmero. This has been a focus of the band, whose music has connected with young and old at each of the performances. The band, fronted by Ryan, debuted at Splashy Fen in 2006, comprising Rudi Engelbrecht on drums, Roberto Hemmero on bass, Jon Calder on piano and Tamlyn Calder on vocals. From there on, there was no looking back. The RCB went on to share the stage with folk legends Magna Carta as well as prominent SA acts Prime Circle, Plush, Southern Gyspey Queen, Newtown and Guy Buttery. The band has performed at all of KZN’s major music festivals and prominent venues in headline and supporting roles. <a href="https://www.last.fm/music/Ryan+Calder+Band">Read more on Last.fm</a>. User-contributed text is available under the Creative Commons By-SA License; additional terms may apply.