Singer songwriter, Matt Nathanson, made a rare up close appearance at the Larimer Lounge Thursday night.
I love seeing Matt Nathanson live. I love listening to his music. Basically I love Matt! The acoustic show last night at the Larimer Lounge in Denver was amazing and even better and more than I had hoped for in a small intimate venue. People were sandwiched together, bodies touching, as we all came together to enjoy the show. Last night’s performance again confirms that Matt is a phenomenal songwriter, singer, musician and performer as well as a stand-up comedian. The personal parts of his life he shares on stage, his jokes and ongoing dialogue with the audience make you feel as if you’re spending the evening with an old and dear friend.
The material from the Massachusetts born artist’s latest album, “Show Me Your Fangs,” are new, different, fun to listen to and enjoy. Perhaps his most thought provoking album to date. Last night the troubadour’s take on “Gold in the Summertime” broached an already perfect evening. It also happens to be my favorite song on the new album. Matt mixed in old hits like “Kinks’ Shirt,” “Car Crash,” and “Headphones.” The covers king threw in some of vintage tracks like “Suspended,” “Bent,” and “Answering Machine.” Nathanson came equipped with a giant wheel on stage reminiscent of “Wheel of Fortune” and Vanna White that he spun to select which song to perform next. Matt’s “wheel of songs” was hilarious, and he joked that he wasn’t sure he actually remembered all the 100 songs on the wheel.
The lyrics of Matt’s songs are lovely, touching, and remind you of all the good things to be in love. They’re silly, frustrated, committed, playful and serious all at the same time. When you sum it all up, it’s almost like a wonderful therapy session where you come to know yourself better without the burning candles and bubble bath. Last night’s show in Denver was a reminder of the healing power of music.
Hope to see you again soon, Matt, and I hope the wheel lands on “Modern Love.” And fyi, I’ll be drinking my morning coffee out of my new Matt Nathanson “no one loves you the way I do” coffee mug every single day … what a great way to start the day. – Valley Girl (word and photos)
Matt Nathanson: “All I Ever Have to Do Is Dream (Everly Brothers cover)” [mp3]
