Post - War : M. Ward : Review : Rolling Stone

Matt Ward is one eccentric troubadour worth your lunch money. His smoky, seductive warble recalls Devendra Banhart and a less-grizzled Tom Waits; he knows how to make whimsy sound really good; and he knows pain, but he's no sad sack. He can also write: His fifth album shows a true familiarity with the clear-eyed mortality and dusty tunefulness of classic roots music. Post-War is long on gentle acoustic songs as well as rockier fare with ramshackle atmospherics and classic-pop melodies; there's also front-porch country folk ("Rollercoaster") and bar-band stuff ("Right in the Head"). Character sketches like "Requiem" are fully formed and touching, and some of the up-tempo songs -- especially "To Go Home" -- suggest Phil Spector producing Nick Drake. It all sounds familiar but strange, and beautiful enough to suck you in.

CHRISTIAN HOARD

(Posted: Aug 10, 2006)

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5of 5 Stars

"Post-War" is one of my favorite albums from 2006. M. Ward is just a fantastic song-writer. Incredibly tasteful and sparse music. He has such a unique, old-fashioned style of guitar playing that is so intriguing and absolutely pleasant. And having seen him recently on tour supporting the album, the guy can rock your socks off as well. "To Go Home", "Right In The Head" and "Magic Trick" were much more lively than I expected! check this guy out. he is very deserving of your attention.

Oct 8, 2006 22:57:31

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