“High Above the Ocean” puts one’s soul into the driver seat with a great view of the ocean’s waves, with the wind at their backs. A song of faded dreams, building a vantage point, falling to criticism, empty days and wasted energy, Smith asks himself “What was that I turned into, what was it that led me to this view, high above the ocean on this late December afternoon”. “Some Things Are Worth Changing” is a beautiful, laidback lullaby set on board the framework of a country style flair. “With Honor” is a truly captivating highlight of the record, a haunting story of a past love relationship, asking the listener “Who is there to divide and conquer now, fall in disgrace now, to die with honor”. A perfect blend of melancholy sadness and uplifting fret work on the guitar leaves the listener pondering over much missed friends in times past. “In Spite Of Me” bends the innocence of Smith’s music, its lyrics serving the purpose to strive for a goal and a dream, to get past the struggles and stumbling falls in this sorrowful world.

Smith’s music takes on a flavor of the west, with hints of adventures out in the range, and raging battles between man and animal, and battles within man’s own self. To those listeners needing a break from distorted and twisted local band music, Matthew Smith gives ears a refreshing breather with heartfelt lyricism and creatively arranged, yet chillingly simple songs. Smith’s melodies speak to the soul with honesty and forgiveness, and dreams to build on. A Progression of Sorts is certainly a progression for Matthew Smith into a forward and much deserved positive direction towards an even more enlightening future.

Shawn M. Haney
freelancer, singer
B.A. Print Journalism
Georgia State University

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