Matt Costa has been creating catchy, simple songs since 2006. He expands his sound with his new self-titled album, displaying the perfect balance between simplicity and complexity.

 

Although the instrumentals are complicated, most tracks (especially the fast-paced ones) are easy to become familiar with and are instantly likeable. A lot of the songs contain collaborative vocals, which add a sense of community to the music. This is especially true in  “Loving You,” “Good Times,” and “Walls Like Windows.” After seconds of listening to them, it is clear that these tracks will be the album’s highlights.

 

While the slow-paced tracks contain the same complex instrumentals as the fast-paced tracks, they often contain repetitive and mundane lyrics; sadly, this can detract from the beauty of the music.  However, there are two notable exceptions. “Laura Lee” is truly great. With guitar as the primary instrument, “Laura Lee” provides a nice change of pace from the influx of strings and piano that is present on the majority of the album. “Ophelia” is equally enjoyable, as every aspect of the song is beautiful.

 

Unfortunately, one of the best songs on the album, “Never Change,” just does not fit. Costa’s distinct voice is not even recognizable. This charming song could have been transported from a 1960’s folk album; no other song shares this quality. Therefore, its greatness is overshadowed by its lack of cohesion with the rest of the songs.

 

Matt Costa is Matt Costa’s fourth LP. It is unique for an artist to release a self-titled album so late in their career. However, self-titling this album is completely justified as this album excellent and displays Costa’s depth as a musician.