Scott Matthews is from Wolverhampton and- according to his PR people- Scott is also the most exciting new talent to have emerged from the Black Country in ages. Correct. But wasn’t the last “most exciting talent to have emerged from the Black Country” Frank Skinner? “Elusive” is reminiscent of Stephen Fretwell’s song “Emily”. By that I mean “Elusive” is haunting, demanding, disturbingly erotic and quite simply beautiful. The second track, “The Wasp And The Jar” might sound like a possible title for the next and final Harry Potter book but it is quite simply breathtaking. Scott Matthews is not James Blunt. I am not sitting here trying to understand vague references to army initiations hidden in the lyrics. In other words, I’m not listening to a James Blunt track. Who would have thought such power could come from a voice so soft, tender and emotionally mature as the voice of Scott Matthews? “Elusive” wafts to the ear but pinches as it passes. It’s a love song with a twist and a twist you’ll have to make up your own mind about. The music of Scott Matthews is mellow but powerful, rich but accessible and hungry for an audience. Scott Matthews is going places. I only hope he keeps himself grounded and rooted to the stark realism and hidden inner beauty of the world that is the source of his awe-inspiring music.
Rating: 5/5
Record Label: Island Records
Release Date: 18th September 2006
Words By: Martin Drury
