Visions Of America
Self-Released, 2019
9/10
Austin’s Matthew Squires might best be known as your favorite bands favorite obscure songwriter, but with Visions Of America the DIY artist could easily secure him a brush with fame, as his offbeat brand of pop is nothing if not addictive here.
“American Fever Dream” starts the listen with an adventurous indie-folk tune that’s full of quirky pop ideas, too, and “Perfect Eye” follows with a subdued approach and strong storytelling prowess.
Further along, “Strange Day” flows with breezy melodies and ‘80s influences, while “Joke Song” offers a busy setting with keys and a dreamy backdrop of plentiful hooks.
Near the end, “Fire Song” recruits a darker tone with poetic, folk-rock, and the title track exits the listen with subtle fuzz, psyche-rock influences and some experimental touches on his varied formula.
An extremely prolific artist, Squires never does anything ordinary, and while there is certainly familiarity in his delivery, his ‘80s New Wave meets bedroom pop meets outsider folk mashing makes this one of the most adventurous and interesting records of the year.
Travels well with: Built To Spill- Perfect From Now On; Grandaddy- Sumday