While most of his previous work has been based around typical singer/songwriter fare (relationships, growing up, etc) his newest release plans to celebrate his city of Vancouver in all of its splendour. Recently inspired by the growing homeless population, the debate over the Olympics and violence in the gay community, Matthew paints a picture of life in one of the most stunning cities in the world during a strange and difficult time of change.

Recorded almost entirely at his apartment, Matthew takes a back-to-basics approach exploring sounds of vintage synths, distorted guitars, and loops to add a new depth to his signature piano style. The addition of Jazz singer Kacie Wallace takes the vocal performance to another level with rich harmonies and incredible duets. The idiosyncratic, eastern influenced guitar solos of Hazen Rice are the perfect touch and add to the overall feel of the album – tender, beautiful and rough around the edges. The striking album cover depicts Matthew’s innocent looking face imposed over the familiar pride flag splattered in blood.

The album’s lead off single ‘Family Down’ is a powerful rock song exploring themes of misogyny in gay relationships and contrasting those to the ideals of a typical family. While songs like “Golden Rings” and “This City’s Dogs” focus on the darker side of Vancouver there is a glimmer of hope and appreciation on songs such as the epic “I am an Ocean” and the album’s closer “Why Why Why” where Matthew sings about the beauty of Vancouver and how glorious it is to live and love in such a place. Matthew’s sense of humour comes out in the record as well with the song ‘4U2BM9’ a straight up dirty dance song complete with a naughty rap by local performer Derek Bedry.

All in all the eclectic rock album reflects Matthew’s feeling towards his home of Vancouver. It is diverse and beautiful with elements of rage and fear balanced with hope and pride. ‘This City’s Colors’ is a homegrown effort from one of the most exciting and versatile young performers in the city.