"Ryman took a 20-year break from songwriting and consequently didn't make her stage debut until she was 40. But in the past few years, this coffeehouse folkie has been making up for lost time. This sophomore CD is a well-crafted collection of unexpected songs about diverting topics: university and hospital bureaucracy, playing to tiny crowds and a

"Ryman took a 20-year break from songwriting and consequently didn't make her stage debut until she was 40. But in the past few years, this coffeehouse folkie has been making up for lost time. This sophomore CD is a well-crafted collection of unexpected songs about diverting topics: university and hospital bureaucracy, playing to tiny crowds and a crazy street person named Maggie. Ryman has a clear and winsome voice, a ready sense of humor, a short-story writer's flair for detail and an excellent cast of local supporting musicians." Tom Surowic Minneapolis Star Tribune "Barb Ryman's talent unfolds on 'Lay Me Open' ... you can't help being amazed at the power of her presence and the sound of her voice. You can't help but listen." Jim Walsh - St. Paul Pioneer Press