M Ward

Rocky Road

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Since receiving the excellent tip from Frihed89 last Spring, I've listened to most of Matt Ward's releases, one by one. I find Ward to be one of the most interesting new folk rock artists I've come across in the past few years.
Each of his releases produces something refreshing, different and engaging, and the songwriting is excellent as well. His raspy, often processed voice, takes a few listens to acquire the taste of his music, but then it becomes a very signature, mood setting element to his sound.
As one that really appreciates acoustic guitar, I appreciate Ward's "less is more" application of the instrument - not that he isn't a fine guitarist, because he is very talented - but the song comes first and the guitar is decorated into the music in perfect doses. He composes each song with such an interesting layering of subtle effects on guitar and voice, plays around with studio sound effects, yet restrains from over-indulging any particular ingredient in the music as a chef might be careful not to add too much of any particular spice. I also noticed that there is very little use of cymbals, and the sound of the kick drums is more prominent in the percussion. He never strays too far from having an acoustic element in the sound amidst the effects, so the mood stays nice and warm. Highly recommended.
Here is the order that I currently rank his releases, mind you they are all very good:
End of Amnesia (2001)
Transfiguration of Vincent (2003)
Post War (2006)
Transistor Radio (2005)
Ward's first release called "Duet of Guitars 2" is only available as an import, so it's expensive. I like his music enough to possibly buy it. If anyone's heard this one, I'd appreciate some opinions.

Ken

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Topic - M Ward - McGruder 08:24:51 11/22/06 (2)

Re: M Ward - boboli 12:14:21 11/22/06 (0)

Re: M Ward - McGruder 08:38:05 11/22/06 (0)

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