Matt Epp's Ready In Time is touted in press materials as an "artistic rejuvenation" for the veteran Winnipeg singer-songwriter. Epp's eight-track EP is earnest with a capital E, with not an ounce of cynicism to be found, and it breezes by at just under 30 easy-listening minutes. It is nicely sung and performed with a traditional, somewhat generic Americana sound, and would be right at home on FM radio alongside MOR favourites like James Blunt or Train.
The title track, "Ready In Time," is the best song on the record by a mile, with a Tom Petty-esque vibe, a bit of fuzz and a sing-along chorus. "Hard To Say" is also a nice, heartfelt track, reportedly recounting the tale of Epp's grandfather's immigration to Canada. Less interesting is "Go Somewhere," which is nicely sung and features pretty backing vocals but is standard-issue love song fare. "Cash & Blood" sounds like the Eagles covering Sade, and that will either appeal to you or it won't.
Though the EP would have benefitted from trading out some of its mid-tempo numbers for a few more gritty tracks, Epp is clearly an accomplished performer. For anyone looking some straightforward, melodic new music in the adult-contemporary vein, Matt Epp has got you covered.
(Independent)The title track, "Ready In Time," is the best song on the record by a mile, with a Tom Petty-esque vibe, a bit of fuzz and a sing-along chorus. "Hard To Say" is also a nice, heartfelt track, reportedly recounting the tale of Epp's grandfather's immigration to Canada. Less interesting is "Go Somewhere," which is nicely sung and features pretty backing vocals but is standard-issue love song fare. "Cash & Blood" sounds like the Eagles covering Sade, and that will either appeal to you or it won't.
Though the EP would have benefitted from trading out some of its mid-tempo numbers for a few more gritty tracks, Epp is clearly an accomplished performer. For anyone looking some straightforward, melodic new music in the adult-contemporary vein, Matt Epp has got you covered.