MATT TARKA is a singer/songwriter that hails from Lancaster, Pa. He has quite an amazing catalog of music for all to hear which should be a real treat to everyone.
Also, he has recruited some very interesting artists to help him reach his musical goals. The band on the Surely Late EP is: Matt Tarka: Acoustic guitar, vocals; Ted Comerford:Bass guitar, organ; Mitch Easter; Electric guitar, Pedal guitar; Brendan Kelly: Electric guitar; Sean Kelly: Bass, 8 String Bass; Jarret Nicolay: Banjo: Lara Supan; Backing Vocals and Dominic Kelly; Drums.
This 4 song EP was Produced and Engineered by Ted Comerford with Additional Production by Brendan and Sean Kelly and Additional Engineering by Jarret Nicolay and Mixed by Mitch Easter and Mastered by Brad Blackwood. I'd , also, like to mention there are other releases that Matt made with the same musicians involved in his music.
I decided on this review to do several reviews from various releases he made, beside the Surely Late EP. NOW OR NEVER kicks off the Surely Late EP with reflections of early R.E.M./LET'S ACTIVE band. The sound of the guitars and the beat makes his music a pure taste of what has yet to come. This song is quite a gem to start out with. I love it.
VERY LITTLE is great from the very start as his lyrics are super throughout the song. This song reminds me a bit of a Rockpile with its clever melody and lyrics. I'm sure many people can relate to these lyrics.
Superb song from the first note. COMETS bring a different mode to his song as it's more laid back with a solid beat as his voice weaves between the steady beats. So sweet. POSTCARDS has a Tom Petty type beat as the band is as tight as ever and his vocals are as strong throughout the song. Also, check out the lyrics. This song will surely 'get you'.
CROWDS is a song every artist and band should be able to relate to. The lyrics and melody are quite superb, to say the least. Check it out. 19 EAST reminds me a bit of a rocking Bob Dylan song with his voice being a real standout in the song. I'm really impressed with this song for many reasons. WOW! Is all I can say.
SELLING ROSES has quite a different favor from his other songs as he seems more mellowed out and laid back. I must admit, the steel guitar really adds a lot to this song. I love it. I'm amazed at all the magnificent music he has put out. He is a MUST to hear. I want to THANK MATT for being in touch with me. You can find Matt Tarka at: Soundcloud, You tube, Facebook, Deezer, Apple music and other sites. ROCK ON, JIM ALLFORD [STEEL NOTES MAGAZINE]