Oli Matthews Band
Summit
Oli Matthews and his band have created a glorious, joyous union of folk and funk. The rhythms, progressions and shining brass of Africa and America sparkle over a recognisably European and British tradition of old song in the five new pieces of their latest instrumental album, Summit.
Matthews has a six-piece band that reflects its alloy of genres. The folk authority comes from drums and percussion with a grounding bass, keyboards and, of course, a melodeon. Exuberant joy flows from trombone, trumpet and a soaring soprano sax. The studio layout is their agenda and it is very persuasive.
The title track is the most exotic. Its poetic melody, disciplined and steady, winds across moments of adrenaline as the brass stabs in. Melodeon and trombone seem an unlikely partnership but it is a happy one. Creole spice heats folk flesh.
Sharpened Sea is more recognisable folky. This would feel comfortable at a ceilidh, an elegant calling dance, brisk but elegant. Surely a seventh instrument is here with gentle piano passages.
Pop Up is a rhythmic shanty, full of energy and compulsive beat. These tracks are all for dancing but this one makes you want to turn a capstan. Further influences are clear. The bass offers a nod to jazz, but melodic, not hectic jazz. The brass is sometimes so subtle it sounds like woodwind.
The fourth track, Firefly, is pure fun. The musicians might have laboured over intricate composition but the listener can’t help imagining a 1970s cop show as the brave officer leaps across a car bonnet. It has relentless, compelling structure but still releases that wild metal.
Matthews finishes with Dappled Light, the sweetest of these tracks. All the brass is exploited but never allowed to intrude on a delicate piano form.
Summit is a delight and a surprise. Folk fans will be refreshed by the influence from funk and dazzling instrumentation. Funk fans will fall in love with the melodeon. Nobody will be left sitting down.
