Scott Matthews, Passing Stranger
Scott Matthews’ debut LP, ‘Passing Stranger’, is a complex, varied affair that combines traditional folk with rock and blues. The young singer-songwriter from Wolverhampton takes much from other songwriters such as Ryan Adams, Jeff Buckley and Robert Plant, occasionally a bit too much; it sounds as if it’s something you’ve heard before.
The seventeen track LP undoubtedly has its high points, with the soulful ‘Passing Stranger’ providing an invigorating spark to what is a lacklustre opening. The feeling of disappointment continues throughout though, and it seems that there are more meandering interludes than actual songs.
This leaves the underlying feeling that Matthews is trying to build himself up for something bigger and better, but when it finally arrives in the form of his excellent, harmonious recent single ‘Elusive’ you’ve already had enough.
While Passing Stranger is a relatively commendable debut which features in spurts soul-bearing lyrics, Matthews is unable to provide anything special which differentiates him from the competition. Essentially, his work drifts from the hypnotic to the down-right dull, lacking the catchy tunes to make this a mainstream hit.
Out Now
Chris
This reviewer is a Mug!!!!!!!!
Dan
Maybe you could elaborate on your reasons for calling me a mug
John Hall
Mug!
2ldmoe/b
well…. i do have to say that “iPod-wise” i’m left with 10 songs & almost 44minutes
44 modderf*****g B-R-I-L-L-I-A-N-T minutes, that’s also something one has to admit - it isn’t indeed the greatest album ever, but it gives me very much hope for the next things to come from mr matthews. very interseted to see the guy perform his stuff in 2007