Matt Andersen's "Big Bottle Of Joy": An Americana Journey with Heartfelt Lyrics and Powerful Vocals

Matt Andersen – Big Bottle Of Joy

Sonic Records – 2023

www.stubbyfingers.ca

12 tracks; 51 minutes

Canadian artist Matt Andersen returns with his tenth studio album, "Big Bottle Of Joy," a rich exploration into Americana and gospel influences, expanding beyond his well-established solo acoustic blues style.

The album introduces us to the band "Big Bottle Of Joy," and, with its diverse musical landscape, showcases Andersen's versatility as an artist. Let's dive into the twelve tracks that make up this 51-minute journey.

The opening track, "Let It Slide," immediately grabs the listener's attention with its powerful arrangement. Pulsating guitars, keyboards, and the soulful harmonies of the female chorus create a sonic landscape that sets the tone for the album. The song's message encourages acceptance and urges us to let go of judgment—a universal theme that resonates effortlessly with Andersen's vocal prowess.

"So Low, Solo" takes a contemplative turn, exploring the theme of seeking help to overcome a depressed mood. Despite the seriousness of the lyrics, the smooth groove, and Andersen's emotive delivery, make the track both heartfelt and accessible. The subsequent song, "Golden," introduces a change in pace, showcasing Andersen's ability to convey deep emotions. The shimmering keys create a beautiful backdrop for a love story that brings warmth and hope.

"How Far Will You Go" merges bluesy elements with gospel-tinged vocals, resulting in a track that carries a sense of resilience and strength. The smooth blending of genres becomes more apparent in "Aurora," a country-tinged piece written by Terra Spencer. It introduces a different flavor while maintaining the overall Americana vibe of the album.

Matt Andersen co-wrote "Miss Missing You" with Spencer, a cleverly worded song that delves into the challenges of life on the road, balancing the desire for success with the longing for home and loved ones. The track is a testament to Andersen's songwriting prowess and the emotional depth he infuses into his work.

Collaboration shines through in "What's On My Mind," a song co-written with bandmates Cory Tetford and Chris Kirby. The uptempo tune features a powerful guitar riff and a determined expression of the need to articulate one's thoughts. This marks a dynamic shift in the album, injecting energy into the latter part of the tracklist.

"Keep Holding On" and "Rollin' Down The Road" maintain a steady flow, each contributing its unique mood to the overall narrative. "Only An Island" introduces a cover from Port Cities, slowing down the tempo for a poignant ballad. The cover of Groove Armada and Richie Havens' collaboration, "Hands Of Time," adds another layer to the album's varied influences.

The final track, "Shoes," strips down the arrangement, featuring acoustic guitar and accordion. In this intimate setting, Andersen reflects on dancing in a "little kitchen ballroom," providing a heartfelt conclusion to the album.

"Big Bottle Of Joy" is a departure from Matt Andersen's traditional solo acoustic blues sound, showcasing his willingness to experiment with different genres. While the album may not be deeply rooted in the blues, it offers a heartfelt and diverse musical journey.

Andersen's powerful vocals and the band's skillful instrumentation create a listening experience that resonates with authenticity and emotional depth, making "Big Bottle Of Joy" a notable addition to Matt Andersen's discography.