To describe ‘Arrows of Desire’ as being an album of uplifting, uptempo alt-rock would give an idea of where Canadian singer-songwriter Matthew Good’s at, but only tells half the story.
That this represents his 13th studio release is testament to his popularity and enduring appeal in his homeland at least, and it’s remarkable – and an injustice – that he’s not broken into territories outside his homeland, because ‘Arrows of Desire’ is GOOD – not-quite wordplay unintended.
If REM had traded in extrovert indie rock with bounce and an edge of ire and frustration, they might have written an album that sounds like ‘Arrows of Desire’. ‘So Close’ is a fine example of Good’s capacity for a rabble-rousing rocker with a keen pop edge. ‘Garden of Knives’ is driving and channels anger and a range of emotions into something powerful and uplifting.
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Good’s voice is a strong point: he manages to imbue every line with emotion, but without being overwrought or sounding forced or self-conscious. Coupled with the fact he’s clearly an adept songwriter who knows how to play to his strengths, it’s an album that suggests it’s probably worth checking out the dozen that preceded it.
Matthew Good Online
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