antiMusic.com: Aqualung - Memory Man Review

Aqualung - Memory Man Review
by Matthew Hastie

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A few years ago, only a handful of people in the US would've been able to tell you about Matt Hales, a singer/songwriter under the name of Aqualung. In 2002, he dropped an album that received major acclaim and you couldn't go anywhere without hearing the hit song "Brighter Than Sunshine." Now Aqualung returns to the stage with a fantastic follow up and prove that the sophomore slump isn't always a definite thing.

Aqualung got some major exposure with the debut album "Strange and Beautiful", and well deserved too. And hopefully the follow up "Memory Man" will do even more than its predecessor. The album feels more cohesive and original as well and features some very interesting songs that fans of many genres and many ages will enjoy. It's a perfect album for a long drive or a long look at life. Featuring many different arrangements, the songs never feel lost of cluttered either. As the guitars roar in on album opener "Cinderella", you might notice the difference between the two records, but it surprisingly feels at home on the album.

"Lake House", which would be at home in any Tim Burton film, is possibly the best song on the album. With its haunting vocals and simple piano, the song is stripped down to its bones, but sometimes the lack of instruments makes the best song. As well, "Outside" will surely be another radio hit for Aqualung. With a wonderful hook and great arrangements complimenting the lyrics and great guitar work, how could it not? Aqualung will hopefully be around for a long time; Matt Hales is a top notch song writer and can convey emotions like few can. If you are looking for something in the vein of Coldplay, definitely check this artist out.

CD Info and Links

Aqualung - Memory Man
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