MatAre releases brand new single

Over the years, Matt Rousseau has been on a fascinating artistic adventure, once entrenched in Orlando’s breaks scene under the alias Vibal, where he made a name for himself with high-octane dance floor bangers, the Atlanta-based musician has now turned the page to something entirely different with his project MatAre. Trading high octane dance music for bittersweet melodies, his latest incarnation finds him dipping into the emotional wells of dream pop, indie rock and ambient textures, resulting in music that’s timeless and thoroughly meaningful.

Since launching MatAre in 2020, he’s been constructing a sonic world dripping in nostalgia but lit by modern aesthetic. His early self-titled EP introduced the blueprint of shimmering guitars, eflective lyricism and a sense of melancholic warmth. Then came the full-length Patternicit, a work that expanded the project’s output while nodding to touchstones like The Cure, The Sundays, Fleetwood Mac and Depeche Mode.

There’s an enduring quality to his sound that’s moody, melodic and subtly cinematic, like finding an old mixtape that still feels current. This year marks a new chapter with the announcement of his forthcoming album Extinction Burst. The title alone suggests the intensity and thoughtful songwriting that drives his latest work and his newest single “I Could Kill You But I Love You” is an exciting and compelling preview.

Built around a tension between affection and aggression, the track walks the tightrope between contradictory emotions. MatAre leans into this contrast with an infectious garage rock vibe, nodding to early 2000s revival bands while still embracing the bright, echo-drenched sonics of shoegaze. Drums by Francesca Pratt add bouncy drive, while Gabe Wolf’s mixing and mastering keep the whole thing shining throughout.

Recorded in Rousseau’s home studio in Sarasota, Florida, the track captures an intimate feel that feeds into the sound while retaining an anthemic energy. Kicked off by the roll of lively drums, intricate guitar layers form a shimmering backdrop which fades away to leave space for MatAre’s rich vocal leads to float above pulsing bass lines. Building up with the slick twang of guitar lines, the chorus lands with catchy vocal leads to deliver an infectious indie rock scene that’s invigorating and poignant in equal measure.

Wrapped up a transportive atmosphere and cut with energising performance, “I Could Kill You But I Love You” sees MatAre continue to roll out his highly anticipated forthcoming record in style. With Extinction Burst on the way, MatAre is sure to offer another incredible work packed full of magical musical moments for his growing fanbase of listeners around the world.

Listen to I Could Kill You But I Love You below

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