Customer Reviews

Out of the Shadows

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(5)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The first time I listened to the CD I thought "Wow, this CD is a bit too 'gen-x' sad and depressing for me." But the second time I listened to it, I was gripped by the lyrics. After I listened to it the third time, I had to spend a few hours reflecting and journaling about the songs and how they mirrored ideas and thoughts that are deep within me. This CD paints a vivid collage of the emotions and thoughts that are a real part of me: anger, confusion, love, hunger for justice, frustration, doubt, hope. Oh, and lest you think the CD is just some heavy psychotherapy treatment, I assure you that the music is catchy and that some of the songs are light hearted and humorous.

Matt's CD sounds good, but it's the words that set this group of songs apart. Especially good are "What It's Not" and "Why You're So Beautiful", the first and last tracks on the album. Matt "keeps it real", attempting to write words that hit deeper than most folk/pop songs out there right now. Since I'm sure this kind of thoughtful music won't be played on radio stations anytime soon here in L.A., I'm going to keep the disc in my CD changer. Recommended if you like Jackson Browne, Barenaked Ladies, or Randy Stonehill.

A serious, promising artist wise beyond his years. This collection of songs is social commentary and reflections of a personal journey that no doubt will strike a chord with many. His poignant lyrics show a commitment to social justice, racial reconciliation and being real. I appreciate and enjoy Out of the Shadows more each time I listen beyond the skilled instrumentation.

There are two songs that I really like on this album. First, "So Suspicious" is an excellent portrayal of the subtleties of distrust in forming a relationship. The music of "So Suspicious" mirrors the lyrics perfectly by using pleasant sounding chords, that dance around resolution but don't commit to it.
"More Sleep" is a funny and true song about the thing we all avoid: sleep. It's also really catchy, and I find the song playing in my head.
As for the rest of the album, about the most acoustic thing I listen to is Nirvana unplugged, so it's all sort of new to me.

Matt Frazier's lyrics plumb the depth of human emotion and explore the questions that we all ask -- or maybe should. I've heard him live and his songwriting just keeps getting better. My favorites: "Can You Imagine?", "Why You're So Beautiful," and a song surely to be on the next CD, "When You Were Wild." Matt has a penchant for story songs about real people that truly engage. His subjects speak to us across the decades, even centuries. I'm saving 5 stars for his follow-up project because I know there will be one. This is a songwriter/musician endowed with true talent.

Out of the Shadows features thoughtful lyrics with creative music. I haven't heard popular artists produce engaging music that makes you really want to listen and know what the author/singer is trying to get you to think about. This CD encourages thought as well as enjoyment. The tunes are catchy and I found myself singing along after just a few listens. A definite CD to own. Looking forward to the next one!

Out of the Shadows is a moving mix of upbeat and very deep moving songs. This is a CD that you can enjoy by just playing it in the background at a party or you can sit and just be moved by the beautiful lyrics. Matt is a wonderful musician and I look forward to all of his upcoming work!

I enjoy listening to this CD as often as I have time. Matt has a natural ability with his musical talent, as well as writing the songs. I like it especially because I know he has put deep thought into the words, and they mean something special to him. This CD has the type of music that is easy to listen to.