Aqualung is the musical pseudonym for English singer-songwriter Matt Hales. Words and Music marks his fourth release since his arrival onto the music scene in 2002. Hales’ brand of piano-rock isn’t a mainstream sound, but it’s definitely got quality.

Hales is quite pleased with the outcome of Words and Music, pinpointing its warming, fuzzy effect on the senses: “… it’s emotional and candid and funny and friendly. It feels like coming home.” It certainly does, in a way that makes you want to burrow and nestle into something warm and familiar.

Familiarity is the root of this album. Not unlike his third release, Strange and Beautiful, the majority of this album is a compilation of tracks from his previous records. Each previously recorded song, however, is re-released as acoustic versions, subtly retooled to be stripped and yet still melodic. Hales is able to make “Slip-Sliding Away” his own with his slightly heartier vocals while honouring the melancholy spirit of the original. The Paul Simon cover blends well with the rest of the tracks on the album.

Words and Music is another testament to Aqualung’s style: the charming blend of light sounds; the soft tap of the piano keys, and low thump of bass melt into Hales’ eased and earthy voice. Hales has the ability to be crisp, but can also be gorgeously lilting when the mood and music demands.

For those listeners new to the sound of Aqualung, Words and Music may be the right place to start. Hales has chosen to reiterate his talents here with some of his best songs. While his re-releases are great in their re-vamped yet recognizable charm, the new tracks, “Mr. Universe”, “On My Knees”, and “Arrivals”, are clear evidence that Matt Hales is still on his way up, and surely will continue to make strides for the greatly underrated Aqualung.



Track Listing:

7 Keys
Slip-Sliding Away
Can’t Get You Out of My Mind
Good Goodnight
Mr. Universe
On My Knees
Everything Changed
When I Finally Get My Own Place
Nothing Else Matters
Arrivals