Renowned Canadian blues musician Matt Andersen releases his ninth album - his first solo acoustic- ‘House To House’. Embracing a stripped-back sound, the record highlights a tenderness within Andersen’s music that previous releases have hinted at, and only touched upon briefly.
Anyone who has ever witnessed Andersen perform will know that describing his shows as roof-raising is the norm. Utilising the enforced confinement of a global pandemic, he took the time to step back from his usual high-octane output and record his most soulful release to date.
Subtle guitar work underpins the album, and Andersen’s vocals are deep, rich, and reassuring throughout. Opening with the tender ‘Other Side Of Goodbye’, Andersen set the tone for what follows. Warmth and love flow in ‘Let Me Hold You’. An acoustic outing for the title track of his 2013 release, ‘Coal Mining Blues’ heartbreakingly highlights the tragedy of the working class.
‘See This Through’ finds resolve and depth within relationships, while Terra Spencer’s vocals add depth to the beautiful ‘Raise Up Your Glass’. Rounding out the album, a cover of Curtis Mayfield’s ‘People Get Ready’ is a rousing call for social and political awareness. Featuring vocal harmonies from Renny, Micah, and Mahalia Smith, this song surely proves beyond all doubt that there is a gospel album within Andersen waiting to be released.
‘House To House’ is a beautifully produced release that gives the listener the impression that Andersen is in the room with them. Without a doubt, his best work yet.