Matador // Gaz Coombes
Supergrass. Remember them? Whether you’re a fan of the alternative rockers or not, it’s hard not to be enchanted by the restless, scurrying entity which is Matador – the second solo album from Gaz Coombes. ‘20/20’ benefits from crystal clear production, and is tinged with hints of gospel, but it’s ‘The English Ruse’ which is the real gem.
Leaning heavily on electronica, Coombes strives to remain relevant in an ever rotating world of famous names. Not only does he succeed, he hits the nail on the head, perfectly capturing the struggles of life in that oh-so-typical, economical manner of his. ‘To the Wire’ is cutting edge stuff, encapsulating that agonizing feeling of bereavement without making you want to blow your brains out.
Relevant, relatable, it seems Matador is a genuine contender for the Mercury Prize 2015.
Words by Beth Kirkbride
[Feature compiled by Rebecca Rhodes]