Ryk is the guitarist/singer with the band with a little mandolin on the side. Many of his songs are included in the band's performance repertoire. Ryk joined the Pirate Brides after hearing Brisbane's "Mary Blacksmiths" performing and, feeling they needed a male contribution, offered his services. Since his name is not Mary, the Pirate Brides were formed, and Ryk continues to expand his musical skills under their influence. He still performs solo on occasions and joins friends for recordings and tours whenever time allows. He started his musical odyssey later in life than most and his first performances were in Sydney with a duo called "Joint Effort" and also solo. He moved to NSW for health reasons and there discovered bluegrass, before he moved to Victoria and joined "Grand Ridge Road" playing trad and contemporary folk music. Leaving for Townsville after 8 years in Victoria, Ryk's repertoire had developed considerably and he was welcomed to "The Rogues" where he remained for eleven years, as well as continuing with his solo work. Ryk relocated to Brisbane in 2000 to enjoy the lifestyle. His early influences include anything from the 60s and later influences are mostly folk, roots, country and bluegrass offerings from the 19th century onwards.

Read Ryk's profile from the Folk Rag