Swiss singer-songwriter MattO first became fascinated about music due to its ability to speak to him even across a language barrier. Starting his journey at the age of seven, MattO’s introduction to the profound impact of music came through iconic tracks like “Lola” by The Kinks and “Ob-la-di Ob-la-da” by The Beatles, despite his initial lack of English proficiency. This early revelation became the creative spark for a lifelong passion that would see him evolve into an artist in his own right.
Drenched in the grandeur of Pink Floyd’s progressive soundscapes and the timeless hard rock of Led Zeppelin, MattO’s musical vision continued to expand. Collaborating with creative professionals like Jon Leidersdorff, known for his work with Bruce Springsteen and Lakehouse Music Academy, MattO began writing his own original music.
Making his entrance in 2016 with his debut record Man from Yesterday, followed up with his sophomore album The Future of Your Past in 2018. Returning last year with new singles and an EP titled Only Got One Shot, 2024 has seen his third LP with Reeling, an album that dissects the complexities of modern life, juxtaposing it with our primal past across ten captivating tracks.
Bringing us the title track, “Reeling,” MattO stitches a sonic fabric of international influence, drawing inspiration from both sides of the Atlantic. “Reeling” serves as a poignant social commentary, addressing a bewildered global population seeking answers in a technologically-driven but challenged world.
With “Reeling,” MattO casts a classic folk rock sound built on acoustic and electric guitar, keys bass, drums and his the rich timbre of his voice. Jumping straight in his vocal leads riding the strums of warm acoustic guitar as a distant shaker grounds the rhythm, the pulse of bass guitar and snap of drums sets the groove. Bouncy keys add colour to the arrangement as MattO’s compelling vocal performance spins storytelling lyricism, crafting a timeless folk rock listening experience.
Peppered with slick electric guitar work and intricate instrumental flutters, the song breaks down to the bold punch of bass guitar and steady drums int he second verse before gradually building up again, reaching a crescendo where crunchy electric guitar flourishes weave among his lead vocals to craft a charming finale to his superb song. Full of stellar musicianship, energising rhythm and enduring songwriting, “Reeling” is a delightful song that sees MattO distil his retro influences through his own modern sonic lens.
In the accompanying live video for “Reeling,” shot during a vibrant performance in Milan last summer, MattO links up with longtime musical companions Luca Meneghello on guitar and Sandro de Bellis on drums. Directed by Marcello Bumbica, the video captures the their effortless synergy and the expansive room for improvisation that defines their performances, wrapped up in spliced shots of colourful filters to provide the perfect visual pairing for the song.
Watch the music video for Reeling below
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