Review:

on 2009-06-19 muddyfish_uk Said:

Scott Matthews hails from the English midlands and is a solo artist who adopts an eclectic style based on folk and singer/songwriter sensibilities. His debut 'Passing Strangers' was met with critical acclaim across the UK on its release due to the cult following behind the single 'Elusive'.

Matthews is a talented songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who's many influences act as both his success and in part, his downfall. The album is interesting enough throughout to keep you guessing as it weaves you on a journey, which more than likely means something to Matthews however, the nature of the journey isn't communicated sufficiently enough to the listener and in this respect the album comes across as confused and slightly overdone in parts.

That said, when Matthews shines, he really shines - and positively drips with potential. The beforementioned 'Elusive' is a gorgeous ballad in which Matthews is accompanied by simple, yet highly effective strummed low notes, with whispers of atmospherics and harmony in the background complimenting his gentle voice and stirring lyrics. Similarly, the beautiful 'Eyes Wider Than Before' takes a similar tone, incorporating plucked guitar notes and an Elliott Smith inspired double tracking on the voice to assist in the ethereal quality of the song.

Large parts of the album however are more upbeat. This is entirely welcome as it allows for a more relaxed listening experience, taking the listener on a trip (albeit an unknown one) which tracks a range of emotions instead of dwelling in self-pity and sorrow as so many singer/songwriters often do. The title track is straight up blues and whatsmore, it's entirely believable. Not one song on this disk comes across as insincere or half hearted. You really get the impression that Matthews has poured his heart and soul into this collection of songs. Particularly on the incredible 'City Headache'.

Passing Stranger deserves so much more than 7/10 - but I feel it is wrong to rate an album highly simply due to it having some accomplished songs on it - rather, the whole album has to be accomplished and unfortunately, 'Passing Stranger' has too much filler on it. The 'Little Man Tabla Jams' (of which there are two) are simply not necessary and the musical intervals are a little self indulgent. When Matthews pulls it off right, he sounds like a cross between the late Jeff Buckley and late Elliott Smith. If that isn't enough to make you go and buy the album then take on board that 'Passing Strangers' has some really quite beautiful moments on it. If Matthews can learn to trim the filler out of his work ('Passing Stranger' would make a near perfect 10 track album!) then he will go on to great great things.

Rating: 7/10