Better Times
Self-Released, 2026
9/10
This debut album from Austin, Texas artist Matthew Payne takes inspiration from Bruce Springsteen and Willie Nelson, where the 10 songs welcome James Stevens, Marty Muse and Kevin Smith to the authentic climate.
The heartfelt and soft “Better Times” starts the listen with Payne’s emotive voice alongside Muse’s aching pedal steel, and “Heartsick” follows with an upbeat mood via the quick guitar and Smith’s frisky bass.
“Name” occupies the middle spot and carries a darker spirit via the meticulous guitar and firm singing, while “My Father’s Son” burns gentle and intimate, where well timed harmonica and poetic singing makes an impression.
Arriving late, “Slip Through Me” allows for Payne’s gripping voice to draw us in to the vulnerable and touching songwriting, and “Terlingua” exits with a similar approach of bare but impactful song craft.
Payne’s formula mixes Appalachian styles with Texas tradition, where country, blues, folk, bluegrass and Americana are part of the experience that’s recorded live and will strike a chord with the thoughtful listener.
Travels well with: Kenny Shore- Happiness & Misery; Mathhew Ryan- A Little Imperfect