Access Atlanta > Arts > Our Reviews > Archives > 2004 > November > 17 > Entry
Matthew Sweet
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Matthew Sweet is indeed very sweet. Not many artists would let their “opening” act play their set in the middle of the show rather than at the beginning. And fewer still would remain on stage with them to play guitar and sing back-up. But Sweet did. It was a generous move. And a bad one. Concertgoers came to see Matthew Sweet, not Velvet Crush (longtime friends who also served as his backing band). Crush isn’t a bad band, just an unremarkable one. And the set switcheroo meant Sweet fans who came late missed his opening numbers. But then, the whole show felt a little sloppy. Sweet looked shaggy and flabby. The room echoed with reverb. And with the band backing him, Sweet’s catchy hooks sounded muddy. He still has a pretty voice and great songwriting chops. And even in a less-than-perfect setting, it was fun to hear old favorites “Evangeline,” “Girlfriend” and “Sick of Myself.” Here’s hoping next time through he gives fans more of what he does best.
Permalink | | Categories: Pop Music
