Matt Elliott - Howling Songs

matt elliottMatt Elliott left his electro drum 'n bass a few years ago to bring us three entirely different records of which Howling Songs is the last. It is a song album with its roots firmly placed in Eastern Europe dominated by Elliott's voice and an array of guitars. Violin, flute and brass instruments of a definite folk persuasion deepen the traditional setting. However, this is no record of 'old' songs, these are an expression of the pains and loves we also feel in this century. The contemplative topics bounce and lilt along swaying melodies reminiscent of those a man may hum or whistle on a stroll. The songs are simultaneously brooding and up-lifting as Elliott saunters from laid-back meander to an intense spinning frenzy. Sorrow, loneliness and despair begin each track yet the album is held out of depression with cycles of frenzied melodic swirls pounded out by guitars and drums. Evident musicianship makes this album and a pleasure to listen to. Comfort comes from its sadness and its pull from it. Elliott is releasing a new album under his previous name 'The Third Eye Foundation" next year. How his folk excursion affects his electronic work will be interesting to hear. -- Anna Johnston.
:: Matt Elliott/Howling Songs -  Ici d'Ailleurs/Cargo.