Mathias
Isassi – 16 Flowers (Independent)
“16 Flowers” is Mathias Isassi’s fourth long-player
of his career, and he’s described it as his “love album”. The young
singer-songwriter has certainly taken his time to get it right: its three-year
gestation undoubtedly reflects his desire to present material which explores
one of the basic aspects of the human condition, whilst simultaneously avoiding
the multitude of clichés and formulaic writing that litters the associated
genre. This he’s achieved through an almost conversational style that’s full of
soul and gentle poignancy, but never overly fraught. It’s a subtle approach and
makes “16 Flowers” easy to engage with, and a record that improves with each
spin.
Based in Kingsville, Texas, Isassi is a regular
attraction in his home state, touring for much of the year and playing wherever
he can find an audience. That experience tells on his new record, where his
songs feel refined and developed, and utterly stripped of excess. The album
opens with one of his best, the spellbinding “For the
Way I Feel for You”. As a statement of intent it works beautifully - as
it sets the scene, with Isassi’s simple guitar lines bringing warmth and
combining perfectly with his voice and the sentiments expressed. The title
track is almost a love letter and his return to “The
Greatest Journey” (the original appeared on his 2007 debut “Last
Chance”) is brighter and a touch more animated. Fans of Terry Callier and
contemporary songwriters like Damien Rice should make a note of his name.
Phil S.
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