Bellamy’s falsetto and the bass runs no longer seem like explorations into neo-classical territory, but these are fine tunes, despite their transparent streaks.
Helmed by metal guru Matt Hyde, Matters – excluding the opener – is a precise, intense, and seasoned output from guys who’ve been at the SoCal game forever.
Kaas returned to her roots as a jazz and blues-influenced French pop diva. She knows what she does best, and that’s belt out emotional songs en français.
Less abstract padded noise and electronic blips and more well-crafted song structures featuring effected guitar hooks coming at you from all directions.