Ricky Montgomery With Ray Bull at Rams Head Live!

Ricky Montgomery at Rams Head Live!

Concert Review

Baltimore, MD – October 19, 2024

Written and Photographed by Caden Forrester

If you have a penchant for indie-pop tunes that tug at your heartstrings and a sense of humor that keeps you smiling, Rams Head Live! in Baltimore was the place to be on October 19th. Ricky Montgomery, the charismatic singer-songwriter known for his soulful melodies and witty banter, delivered a performance that was both emotionally resonant and thoroughly entertaining. With the equally engaging Ray Bull opening the night, concertgoers were treated to an unforgettable experience.

Opening Act: Ray Bull Warms Up the Crowd

Ray Bull took the stage with a confident stride, immediately capturing the audience’s attention with his unique blend of folk-pop and infectious energy. His set opened with “Echoes in the Valley,” a song that showcases his smooth vocals and storytelling prowess. Between songs, Ray’s humor shone through as he cracked jokes about his journey to Baltimore and the quirks of life on the road.

One particularly memorable moment was when he teased the crowd by pretending to wrap up his set after only a couple of songs, eliciting playful groans and laughter from the audience. He then launched into “Name Something Better,” encouraging everyone to clap along. The chemistry between Ray and his band was evident—they shared knowing glances and grins, clearly enjoying every moment on stage. By the end of his set, the crowd was thoroughly warmed up and buzzing with anticipation for the headliner.

Ricky Montgomery Takes Center Stage

As the lights dimmed and an ambient glow filled the venue, the excitement was palpable. A curtain with swirling, psychedelic patterns concealed the stage, heightening the suspense. Suddenly, Ricky Montgomery emerged not from behind the curtain but from a door set at the center of the stage—a dramatic entrance that caught everyone by surprise.

He kicked off his set with “Line Without a Hook,” instantly igniting the crowd. In an exhilarating move, Ricky leaped off the stage and made his way into the photo pit, climbing onto the barricade to get closer to his fans. The audience erupted with excitement as he sang directly to them, creating an electrifying connection. Photographers scrambled to capture the moment, knowing it was a highlight not to be missed.

His energy was infectious; he moved across the stage with an effortless charm, engaging with fans and making them feel part of the performance. The bold entrance set the tone for the rest of the night, signaling that this would be no ordinary concert.

An Engaging and Dynamic Performance

Ricky’s setlist was a well-crafted mix of his most beloved songs and newer material. Tracks like “Cabo” and “California” had the audience dancing and swaying, while “My Heart Is Buried in Venice” brought a more introspective mood, with fans illuminating the venue with their phone flashlights—a sea of stars that added a magical touch to the evening.

Throughout the show, Ricky’s sense of humor was on full display. He shared amusing anecdotes, poked fun at himself, and even engaged in playful banter with audience members. He also took a moment to express his appreciation for his fans’ creativity and individuality, encouraging everyone to embrace their uniqueness. Spotting a few attendees in cosplay and pride flags, he acknowledged them with a heartfelt shoutout, reinforcing his support for the LGBTQ+ community.

Memorable Moments and Highlights

One of the standout moments was during his performance of “Black Fins,” where the entire audience waved their illuminated phones, creating a mesmerizing visual that complemented the song’s emotive depth. The stage lights bathed Ricky in a soft glow, enhancing the ethereal atmosphere.

Another highlight was his unreleased song “Ed Sheeran (SUPERFAN),” during which he donned a giant flag handed to him by a fan. The playful gesture added to the song’s lighthearted vibe and showcased his willingness to interact spontaneously with the crowd.

Encore and Farewell

After an electrifying rendition of “This December,” which had the entire venue singing along, Ricky briefly left the stage. The crowd, unwilling to let the night end, erupted into chants of “One more song!” In a humorous twist, he had earlier joked about not doing an encore, but he returned nonetheless, performing “Mr. Loverman” and leaving the audience on a high note.

As a final gesture, Ricky tossed signed paper airplanes—setlists folded into keepsakes—into the crowd. It was a personal touch that underscored his connection with his fans. The night concluded with a sense of communal joy, the kind that lingers long after the final chord has been struck.

Final Thoughts

Ricky Montgomery’s performance at Rams Head Live! was more than just a concert; it was an intimate gathering of kindred spirits brought together by music that speaks to the soul. His ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with an engaging stage presence made for a show that was both emotionally moving and immensely fun.

Ray Bull proved to be the perfect opener, setting the tone with his relatable songs and charismatic humor. Together, they created an atmosphere that was welcoming, inclusive, and full of joy.

For those who attended, it was a night to remember—a celebration of music, individuality, and the shared experiences that bring us all a little closer. Ricky’s daring move to connect directly with fans during “Line Without a Hook” exemplified his dedication to creating memorable experiences.

If you ever have the chance to see Ricky Montgomery live, seize it. His shows are a reminder of the magic that happens when an artist truly connects with their audience.