Bonus disc added to singer-songwriter's debut.
June 25th sees the reissue of Scott Matthew's debut album 'Passing Stranger' with a bonus disc comprised of five String Quartet sessions with legendary producer John Leckie. The debut, released last October may not have sold by the bucket load but it did impress critics and musicians alike, and led to a surprise Ivor Novello win for the Midlands singer.
The collection of sessions featured are five of the best from a debut album with an ambitious 17 tracks. 'Dream Song' differs from its original incarnation as the Indian rhythm created by the tamba has been replaced by lush string arrangements. The effect is a more delicate song that acts as a more sensitive sibling to the original. Similarly 'Eyes Wider than Before' has a grander and softer sound to it thanks to the gentle guitars and swooning strings. The sessions illustrate how Matthews has developed since the recording of his debut and manage to hint at what could be expected from his next album.
'Elusive' has been reworked into a whisper of itself, a more serious older brother drenched in loneliness and longing. The strumming guitars work well with the orchestral backing and once again add another layer to the proceedings. 'City Headache' is perhaps the most Buckley-esque morsel on offer here, with the emotive vocals echoing the legend to an eerie degree. The violins also add a certain frisson to the song. Although I don't really agree with repackaging albums to increase sales as it tends to thwart the fans who have shelled out already, there's no mistaking that these string sessions are a strong addition to an already strengthened album. All that's left is to see where Mr Matthews goes next.