East Sussex-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Matt Saxton stirs on new album Feel It Again, a rock and folk-infused charmer rooted in both uplifting and introspective storytelling — reflecting on love, personal growth, and the passage of time with inviting, caressing appeal. That the album is a definitive success comes as no surprise, since the first four tracks already caught our ears over the past year: its title track, “Rough Patch“, “Take It Or Leave It“, and “The Edge of Things.”
The newly released tracks are also standouts, fully representative of Saxton’s knack for heartfelt, melodic songwriting. “Lost Between The Covers” pairs a comforting array of mellow piano, warming organs, and sturdy guitar strums as Saxton regales a love of reading books. “I’m lost between the covers, and I’m deep inside your mind,” Saxton’s vocals let out, embracing being “in the lives of others” in book form — even while others may find the outdoors, or other activities, more fulfilling. The ensuing “Unknown Soldier” melds stately piano and soulful harmonica initially, moving in its lyrical reflections of Saxton’s grandfather, who fought in World War II and, like many others of his era, took their stories “to their grave” and left behind a venerated yet mystique-laden legacy.
“Better Days” is another delight, referencing disposition in artful form — acknowledging the passing of time, and personal perseverance, as keys to overcoming depression. Jangling guitars and bright organs complement a melodic production, as advice-forward lyricism enamors in its encouragements. Album finale “You and I” then arrives with impactful, satiating allure — achieving a more stripped-down folk lushness amidst yearning to “please remember me” — ultimately described by Saxton as a track about “the impermanence of life and how we might be most remembered after we have gone by some of the things we said.” A thorough achievement from Matt Saxton, Feel It Again is an affecting success across all eight of its tracks.
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We discovered this release via MusoSoup.
