Classical rock with phenomenal vocals and fighting spirit, that’s what Prizefighter, Matthew Mayfield’s new album, promises. Review.
PRIZEFIGHTER – MATTHEW MAYFIELD
Some voices are particularly outstanding. And Matthew Mayfield has that kind of voice, perfectly pushing it forward through his new album Prizefighter. Coming from the depths of Hell, he chooses to go through dark lands with a powerful, intriguing and biting rock. With Mirror Lake as the opening, the tone is set. Rather on the classic rock side in his approach, the singer-songwriter adds some clear instants, slightly muffled, to his riffs and profound lines. If the romantic folk song Belle of the Ball has some acoustic touches, it also gets some orchestral arrangements that elevate it all. The electric Fumes will use some too.
More mysterious is Undertow and its determined tone, even when facing a harsh reality. It’s the main idea of the record: the wish to keep on fighting, facing despair. That willpower gives birth to rock anthems like Breathe Out In Black and Vendetta Moon, two of my favourites here, the captivating Monsters, and the darker Hold Tight. Before them, it’s the incredibly dramatic, powerful and poignant Die in a Ghost Town, which I adored! This track is a gem, with easy-to-sing-along backing vocals, great energy, clear arpeggios and heartbreaking riffs.
Towards the end of the record, Matthew Mayfield shows his vulnerability even more through Rock n’ roll Can’t Save Me. It’s probably the most heartbreaking song through its simplicity. The Crown and Never Leave You Behind, although less electric, seem to bear more emotional layers. The very last track even has something pretty epic. Together, they carry the last bit of the record brilliantly. Matthew Mayfield signs a strong narrative record with Prizefighter. And whether it’s through its classic, folk or stoner, and even metal, arrangements, he forges a mind-blowing concept. The most mind-blowing element here is still his husky vocals. Don’t miss it!
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