Matt Watson - The Endless Shipwreck
Crowdfunded in just eight weeks and recorded in Montreal by Vid (Nils Frahm, Esmerine and Kid Koala) Cousins, former Huck frontman Matt Watson has delivered something truly special with this, his second solo album.
There are hints of Billy Bragg’s phrasing in Watson’s delivery but he has the melodic sensibilities of the Wonder Stuff’s Miles Hunt or TV Smith of the Adverts. The lyrics are evocative and thought provoking whilst the music heartfelt and timeless. Played with verve and vigour, this mixes up-beat folk, rock and Americana with a DIY punk sensibility.
The title track features some gorgeous slide. Stories From The Sea and Hanging Around are energetic, driving pop. We Were Young takes a nostalgic look at the optimism of youth. Song For You has some belting vocals. The interplay between guitar, and piano on The Kestrel & The Lightening Sea is gorgeous. Argument mixes strummed electric guitar with brass to compelling effect. Let’s Jump Ship brings proceedings to an end on an optimistic high with jaunty brass, sprightly fiddle and gang-chant chorus.
Watson’s debut album Grounded is good – very good – but this takes things to another level. Go on. Buy it. You won’t be disappointed.
9/10
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