antiMusic.com: Josh Matthews

Josh Matthews - Co-Patriot

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Co-Patriot finds Josh Matthews taking a big step in the right direction, artistically. Whereas in the past Matthews' minimalist approach to music has sometimes been just a little too minimal for its own good, this latest effort includes just enough musical spice to keep the aural feast interesting.

The acoustic guitar work, most notably, makes this album shine. For instance, "Bag of Rocks," which speaks about the life-baggage that can oftentimes drag us down, features some winning six-string work. Other acoustic guitar winners include "Honest Man" and "My Story," and most pleasant of all, "A Kite Waiting," which also includes a dobro on its intro. In slight contrast, "Unlucky in Love" is moody and bedded in electric guitar.

Matthews is more of a poet than a traditional singer, and there are moments, such as during the love song "Yolanda," where he draws positive sonic comparisons to original punk poet Jonathan Richman. There are even a few jaw-drop surprises. For instance, are those really bagpipes during "I'm A Fool"? Who would have expected that?

Matthews' music may be an aural culture shock to those accustomed to all the bells and whistles found in modern pop song productions, but if you're brave enough to enter this artists' counter cultural sonic atmosphere, it's oftentimes a rewarding experience.