Whether you're new to Matt Ward cause you fell in love with She & Him, or a die-hard fan dating back to the lo-fi days of End of Amnesia, everyone can appreciate M. Ward's latest release (Febuary 17), Hold Time. From the initial track, Ward sets the tone for what seems to be a tribute to 1960's folk-rock country. According to a genre I made up for this review. In the spirit of Donovan, and even Dylan, Matt rides the dusty-road troubador vibe from beginning to end.Track One, "For Beginners" would have been an appropriate title for the entire album, as it is easily his most accessible artistic effort. Previous devotees can appreciate a slightly sunnier, lighter collection (the road must be getting not so dusty, or the weather is shaping up). And yet the potential for drawing in new fans/the appeal to newcomers is apparent. I've logged my fair share of spins on this one, but I can't claim it as my favorite. I'm still very much enthralled with the somber sounds of Transfiguration of Vincent, the bluesy infectiousness of Post-War, and Matt's evolutionary milestone, Transistor Radio. Don't let the sunny-side up fool you though. Hold Time is chalk-full of the philosophical musings, sentimental lyricism, and downright clever quirkiness that makes Ward so captivating. If you can allow yourself to love the under-produced and less meticulously crafted side of a versatile artist, this is a must buy.
Songs We LoveBottom Line: B +
We recommend getting the record on vinyl if you can. Caution: this level of authenticity may turn your living room into a long and winding road. Yeah, a dusty one. Or possibly a front porch with a rocking chair, old guitar and flapping screen door. Keep on the lookout for some awesome cameos and guest appearances as well. We could tell you who, but there should be a little mystery left in our relationship.
P. L. And keeping the flame between us alive,
LtK
More posts are coming...
LtK
More posts are coming...
