LIVE REVIEW: SCOTT MATTHEWS @ THE UNION CHAPEL 4TH MAY 2018
Background:
Ivor Novello Award winner 'Scott Matthews' has built a significant following since his debut in 2006. 12 years and 5 albums later, he is still going strong. Supporting the release of album number 6 'The Great Untold' Matthews is currently well underway on an extensive 18 date tour across the UK. We decided to catch his show at The Union Chapel in London to see what all the fuss is about.
The Union Chapel - 4th May 2018
Buried in the heart of Islington, The Union Chapel is a hidden gem. Stunning decor, wonderful acoustics and a varied selection of performances scheduled throughout the year. Still operating as a functioning chapel, this was a very different venue to what Spirit Level are used to, but a welcome change of scenery. The 500 capacity auditorium is completely sold out tonight and on stage to warm up the crowd is 'Ady Johnson'. Playing a varied set of original material that ranges from soulful folk music accompanied by mesmerising Spanish guitar to galloping American country music. The chapels acoustics are perfect for this style of music and Johnson showcases his astounding vocal range and skills on guitar; the latter is brought to the fore on his closing song that accellerates to 'Zorba The Greek' levels of speed.
After a brief interval, it is time for 'Scott Matthews' to take to the stage. As the sun begins to set outside, the Chapel begins to develop a mystical and fantastical look as the final rays shine through the stained glass and the indoor lighting catches against the smoke machine at the front of the stage. Standing on an elevated stage in front of the lecturn, Matthews is a sight to behold before he plays a single note. With the additional element of ethereal synthesizers, the setup truly takes on a magical aura.
Matthews musical style is as captivating as his background. Impressive guitar playing accompanied by calming high vocals, it is clear how he has been able to garner such a dedicated following over the years. It is also clear that he is delighted to be here; joking between sets and beaming throughout. Third song 'Sunlight' is a slow ballad dedicated to his 9 week old son which he additionally plays a stunning accompaniment on harmonica. Vocals reminiscent of the late Chris Cornell and a guitar style not dissimilar from Ben Howard, Matthews is truly a talented artist with a varied style from the down-tuned blues swing of 'City headache' to the slow flamenco styled 'As The Day Passes'. However, after a while the set begins to feel a little repetitive and we can't help but wonder if the set would have benefited from being slightly shorter.
The pace quickens for final song 'Passing Strangers' as Matthews switches to an electric guitar and brings back his harmonica. Strong country vibes and a bit more crunch to his guitar tone, it is a perfect way to end the set. Unfortunately, the elated spirits are brought back down to Earth as he returns for a slow and melancholic encore. The level of quality never wavers, but after 90 minutes of sitting on hardwood pews in a dimly lit chapel, it is clear that the less die-hard fans are beginning to feel restless and patience is starting to wear thin. Award winning 'Elusive' and 'Home and Dry' are both fantastic songs, but fall a bit flat after the upbeat rocky finale of 'Passing Strangers'.
All in all a good set, but slightly tainted by the extensive running time and a bit of an endurance for casual fans or newcomers.
