CD Review
This review was originally written by Jose Bernardo for www.theweeklyriff.com between 2008 and 2010.
These were Jose’s first impressions of the songs and were not written after multiple spins.
Artist: Matt Cusson
Album: Matt Cusson (2008 Cuesound Records)
Tracks: 12
Artist website: http://www.matt-cusson.com
OVERVIEW
What a great debut album! Mr. Cusson has found a beautiful way to delicately weave a sonic quilt that showcases old school r&b sensibilities, vocal jazz, and jazz with touches of modern r&b and fusion. There is an air of familiarity in all these intimate songs; but they’re all originals. There isn’t a thing in here that I could point at and say, that came directly from (insert song name or other artist here).
The album also features the Grand Prize winner of the John Lennon Songwriting Competition Session II in 2008, One Of Those Nights.
The strongest aspect of this album are the lead vocals. Matt’s voice is very good. This album is perfect to have in your collection for those evenings after a long day with your favorite glass of wine. Relax and unwind.
The one thing I would have wished for is an uptempo song or two more on this album to move it.
HIGHLIGHTS:
A capella Interlude, Heaven, Take Me Along, Same Old Song
PLAY BY PLAY
Track 1 – Every Step
Nice song. I wish the drum track sat a little further back in the mix. The vocals are wonderful.
Track 2 – Comfortable
Interesting track. Just voice and piano. It works.
Track 3 – Here’s To You and Me
Nice ballad with lots of different flavors.
Track 4 – Could (Featuring Shoshana Bean)
I really want to hear a full band version of this song. The vocal work is superb.
Track 5 – You Don’t Have To Hurry Home
What a wonderful blend of jazz and r&b.
Track 6 – A capella Interlude
Wow!
Track 7 – Heaven
I wish there were a few more like this on the album.
Track 8 – Take Me Along
This is a great example of understanding what a melody should do and how to support it with great harmony. The solos are short but exquisite.
Track 9 – One of Those Nights
This song won in the Jazz category of the second session of 2008, in the John Lennon Songwriting competition. It is a very nice track.
Track 10 – Same Old Song (Featuring Javier)
I really like this one. It’s perhaps my favorite track on this album.
Track 11 – Like A Lover
Pretty. I love the piano here.
Track 12 – Once Upon a Time
Great guitar and synth pad work.