The Brigadier “Sailing the Seven Neuroses”
It’s been 8 years since The Brigadier (aka Matt Williams) visited us, and his return brings back his unique sound exemplified on the opening track “Bleak Companion.” The pop bounce of “The Purge” is about the difficulty of leaving things behind, “I can’t let go, everything I ever had is in this place” he sings, and it has enough twists to have you humming along. “Count Your Blessings” offers advice on gratitude, and be thankful “before you mess things up” with a nice jangle break between the verses. Matt’s soft vocals and layered synths work well, but several songs are missing hooks to keep you invested in repeat plays.
But he hits the mark with “Hot Solace” as he states, “I won’t let the melancholy come over me.” When the guitars mix with synths on “Heaven’s in my Heart” or “Everyday an Ordeal,” it often recalls 80s-era new wave pop, and this is Matt’s sweet spot. The title track is an interesting instrumental that recalls late-era Brian Wilson. This also comes up on the finale, “Don’t Go to Bed Mad,” which has lovely harmonies and is one of the best tunes here. Overall a good album that reintroduces us to the talents of The Brigadier. Check it out!
Bryan Estepa “I See It Now”
Australian Singer-songwriter Bryan Estepa has been a fixture of the DIY indie pop scene for over 20 years, and each album is a lesson in polished authenticity. The opener “Where You Begin” sets up the reflective theme, and “Grounded” is a lovely mid-tempo ballad that evokes McCartney styled sweetness. My favorite here is the light rocker “Version of Me;” picture a mixed blend of yacht rock and Fountains of Wayne. Estepa also addresses the passage of time on “Lines Will Show” and the hook-laden “Alright, OK,” which features a soft chorus that preserves the reflective atmosphere, even with those sharp guitars riffs.
The album closes out with the bittersweet “La última vez” and the lyrically sincere, unpretentious title track “I See It Now.” Although “Corners” feels like a misfire with its pounding rhythm, this short album lacks any filler. If you like soft guitar-pop and are interested in stories about healing, self-improvement, and introspection, you will enjoy this album. Fans of Wilco, Elliott Smith, or Fountains of Wayne should check out this well-crafted group of songs.