Country: Belgium
Earlier this year, I was able to visit the beautiful city of Brussels, and while it didn’t have a reputation as a “music city”, I’m not surprised to discover talented singer-songwriters like Matt Gombau call the city home.
Inspired by artists like Tallest Man on Earth, Ben Howard and Damien Rice (all of whom I love), Gombau write lovely, evocative songs that touch on the personal in inviting, intimate ways. Tracks like “Little Bird” are perfect examples. A soft, jangling acoustic song, Gombau wrote the song:
“…shortly after becoming a dad. It’s a quiet reflection on the overwhelming love, fear, and hope that comes with holding your child for the first time. The song captures those early moments—watching her sleep, dreaming of the person she’ll become, and realizing how much everything has changed.”
The guitar tones on “Hosting Secrets” give the track a chamber folk setting, as Gombau admits to feeling vulnerable while chasing his demons. The track sways almost like a sea shanty, but remains grounded thanks to Gombau’s relatable vocals.
“In my dreams, I really need to move away” Gombau sings on the meditative “Breathe”, which melds soothing vocals with ethereal sonics. The combination is ultimately cathartic, even as there remains an underscore of melancholy.
Matt Gombau has only been releasing music for four years, but he’s already composing tracks that would make his musical heroes proud. Take a listen to a couple of them in our World Watch Playlist.
The Indy Review 