Album Review: Even The Dying

Music has taken Matthew Moore across the world. Growing up in Kaitaia and South Auckland, his relocation to America has taught him the skills which developed his new album Even The Dying. This record is completely self-recorded, engineered and mixed, showcasing Moore’s commitment to enabling his own creativity anywhere and everywhere.

Although this collection is all about warm, bright country and Americana sounds, it immediately suggests more depth from its title track, which juxtaposes morbid lyrics about mortality against a cheery sonic backdrop. “There is no escaping, you’re no longer free”, Moore croons, but there’s a casualness to the delivery that makes life’s limited nature feel like no real weight on his shoulders. He depicts the end in great detail across these eight tracks, as a candlelit castle in the sky or as a nostalgic film reel of memories through the eyes of an old man. But the organic production makes this feel remarkably peaceful, accepting how there’s actually some comfort in knowing we’ll all meet the same fate.

Moore’s impressive musicianship spans across these songs, from gritty guitar playing and bluesy licks to rich harmonica instrumentals. Whilst occasionally, some more dynamic range helping the songs grow and change could be useful, overall the sound is well crafted and always serves to emphasise the simple, effective lyricism.

Highlights include This Is Done, which kicks off with an almost ironically happy hook before filling the soundscape with jaunty country guitars, as well as the bouncing basslines and romantic storytelling of Angela, all the more beautiful in the layered vocal harmonies. Falling In Love Tonight is also a standout, for its tranquil, spacious instrumentals and the way Moore pulls the listener into his perspective of an evening’s blossoming love.

For fans of the folk and Americana genres, Matthew Moore is a promising musical independent. His prowess in all aspects of music-making shows extreme talent, and his often ironic, passively resigned lyrical perspective is unique and engaging. Even The Dying would enjoy this prolific collection.