Over the course of six acclaimed albums, Matt Pond has composed a world of poetic characters and bittersweet melodies. Each release presents a new emotional arc, drawing fans in closer with personal lyrics and endearing ho... more »oks. "Last Light" offers the most dynamic glimpse of this world yet. Set against Matt's pastoral imagery, this collection of songs follows a path from hopeless longing to the hope of new love - exploring all the delicate twists, turns, rifts, and revelations in between.« less
Over the course of six acclaimed albums, Matt Pond has composed a world of poetic characters and bittersweet melodies. Each release presents a new emotional arc, drawing fans in closer with personal lyrics and endearing hooks. "Last Light" offers the most dynamic glimpse of this world yet. Set against Matt's pastoral imagery, this collection of songs follows a path from hopeless longing to the hope of new love - exploring all the delicate twists, turns, rifts, and revelations in between.
"Matt Pond delivers on the newest album, just as good as the numerous albums past. There are new sounds and familiar ones combined on "Last Light." While I understand I've only listened to it once, I'm sure it's an album that will grow rapidly on me. That's what the 4 stars are for. I'd suggest buying it on itunes, you get a ton of extra songs, including the whole "If You Want Blood" EP, all for 9.99!!! But if you're into purchasing albums, I'd suggest doing that too. Anyway to get this refreshing release by one of today's most invigorating indie artists. Just in time for fall, in true MPPA fashion! Enjoy."
"It's Not So bad at all"
John M. Cole | Brooklyn, NY USA | 10/02/2007
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Excited and eager to hear matt pond's newest album in just under two years, Last Light was far from your average album. Combining the matt pond of the past and the more dynamic sound the band now contains, Last Light is a perfect balance of both. Again, Matt delivers sincere vocals amidst catchy hooks, guitar solos, hand claps, and the almighty cello.
Despite changing members quite often, mpPA never fails to impress as new members bring their own unique elements to certain tracks (ie: guitar solo in The Crush). If you've been a fan of his work, i highly recommend this album. At the same time, if you're looking for something new to put on your iPod, I highly suggest giving this album a listen. This may break-through album and one of the best of this year.
Tracks that stand out the most: People Have A Way,Taught To Look Away, Basement Parties, Sunshine."
Another Step Forward
R. Homa | Allentown, PA USA | 09/27/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Solid effort from beginning to end. No weak spots, no filler. "Several Arrows Later" was a beautiful record, but have been enjoying this more every listen. Harder edged, more upbeat tempos, yet still filled with lots of unique lyrics that grab your attention at each repeated listen."Last Light" is a great opener, "Locate the Pieces" is classic MPPA with an almost late-era Replacements-esque guitar sound. "Sunlight", "Basement Parties" are goose-bump inducing, and "Taught to Look Away" is a gut-wrenching beautiful ballad. While songs are heavier on guitar (i.e. "Crush"), piano and strings (and various instruments) provide a richer overall sound. Songs are still emotionally charged, even without the cello being so dominant. Has everything you would want from a MPPA album, but now the intensity is turned up a notch.
Are these the best songs he's written? The most complex lyrics or arrangements compared to past albums. Probably not, but its a satisfying listen filled with songs that sound great live and will appeal to a wider audience. Its a MPPA CD you can pass on to friends who may not get the subtleties of Emblems, Nature of Maps and even Several Arrows."
Very solid album
Dan | Seattle, WA | 02/22/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I like this every bit as much as Several Arrows Later. I was hooked with the first listen. Like the previous reviewer said: no filler here. Every song has it's own little bit that adds to the album; after hearing this I'm a bit sad. I might not be in Seattle when MPPA comes to town at the end of March, and they will have swooped through Florida before I move there. What's a boy to do?"
Ok
A. Willardson | las vegas | 12/07/2007
(4 out of 5 stars)
"nothing wrong with this record, not quite as good as 'Several arrows later' though, that set the bar bar pretty high. as good as some of the earlier albums, like 'maps' or 'fury'