Ryan Smith is a veteran multi-instrumentalist, composer, producer and session musician. A lifelong resident of Tucson, Arizona, Ryan studied Cello under Gordon Epperson, and won many accolades in his youth as a promising young artist. As a cellist, bassist, and guitarist, he cut his teeth in the studio as a local session musician, appearing on numerous albums throughout his 40+ year career; and has performed live with many local bands, such as Pathos, Kristen Chandler, Taylor Tunes, and Payphone Mafia. He has also been known to perform music from his extensive solo acoustic catalog at local events. His ability to sit in with multiple styles of music has made him much sought after as a “fill in” player, and his passion for world music has made him a formidable force in the Tucson music scene. Ryan enjoys music of many traditions, from classical to metal, and beyond. While not playing with Netherdred, he produces music for a multitude of upcoming projects. His song “She Wore Red” appeared on the Cutting Edge album “Censored by the US Government” and received extensive international airplay. Ryan plays Fender, Schecter, BC Rich and Gretsch guitars; Warwick, Ibanez, and Wishbass basses; and uses amps by Mesa Boogie, Fender, and Carvin. His dog, Loki, is the unofficial mascot of Netherdred; for he is black, fuzzy, and the emissary of Mayhem.
