The Long-Awaited-Debut-Album is a completely unique brand of record. Take Matt Ryd, for instance. In addition to interviewing him for this blog, I’ve seen Ryd play in various formats around Chicago for about three years – so I’ve already heard most of the songs that appear on his new Long-Awaited-Debut-Album called Looking for Home. I’ve seen the songs live, I’ve watched them on his active YouTube channel, I’ve seen them solo, I’ve seen them with a band.
So as I listen to this CD for the first time, the questions are all different. It isn’t about, “Is this good music?” I already know it’s good. It’s more about the recording itself – the relevant questions become things like “does this recording showcase my favorite parts of the song when I see it live?” Or, “Do the added production elements make this song – which I’m used to hearing with just vocals and guitar – better?” Instead of “do these songs work?” the question is, “Do these songs still work?” As a fellow musician, and as someone who knows, in real life, many of the people I feature on this blog, the question with a Long-Awaited-Debut-Album boils down to, “Should they be proud of themselves about this record, and was it worth all the work?”
Matt Ryd should be really proud of himself.
This album extrapolates on all the elements that I’ve always liked about Ryd’s music. His impeccable pop construction and vocals are accentuated by super-tight instrumental arrangements – especially with synth and drums. The hand of producer Bill Prokopow (I Fight Dragons) is obvious but non-obtrusive, adding wonderful dynamics and sonic depth. The songs I was most excited about taking home with me, like “Impression,” are absolutely satisfying. Plus there are new hit-worthy songs throughout the 11-track record. The (almost) title track “Home,” expands the singer/songwriter mold in the vein of The Postal Service and Owl City, while “Wonderin'” succeeds with beautiful harmonies and more traditional form. Hard work pays off, and Matt Ryd put in the effort to create an album that really captures his music at its best.
Where to purchase Matt Ryd’s Looking for Home:
Digital: http://itunes.mattryd.com/
Physical: http://store.mattryd.com/
Hear a couple of the tracks I mentioned on the Mid By Northwest Radio, and be sure to connect with Matt on your social network of choice. I promise, he’ll connect right back.
Thank you so much for such a thoughtful review, Matt! I’m thrilled that you like the album! 😀