There are certain songs that transcend what is commonly thought of as music these days, and often in the simplest way possible. Josh Matthews has keyed into this magic midway through his new album Co-Patriot with the distinctively off-the-wall “Way Before I Ever Knew You.”
Sounding a bit like a mid-western Leonard Cohen, Mathews refers back to the pre-relationship details and experiences that colored his life before he came to know the person he now calls his lover. Some of his reflections are as vague as “running into the big blue” while others are as specific as busking in Spain with a harmonica or watching a man levitate off a house boat.
It is a song that harks back to the great country-western format, allowing for the narrator to uncharacteristically step out of the track as he pleases. This is accomplished beautifully by Mathews who delivers the verses in a relaxed speakeasy tone, returning to the refrain above a safety net of barbershop harmonies.
The buzz of the sparse bass line and melodic nature of the hook allow for the experimentation of elongated verses and even a sound effect here and there. After a hearty cough pierces the track, Matthews continues unfazed “I was sick once with the flu, on a bench in Peru… way before I ever knew you.”
The sexy simplicity of “Way Before I Ever Knew You” is given extra ‘oomph’ from Josh’s sister Eliza who coos along in a flirtatious accent, providing a wonderful counterpoint to the songs whimsical imagery.
Co-Patriot’s release date is April 29 but it can pre-ordered via Josh’s Bandcamp.
