Off Sunset is a record about change, and drastic change at that. The debut indie folk record from One Matt Beyer has its own set of diversity and eclecticism throughout the record, consistently moving from style to style and theme to theme. Harbouring a host of luscious and palatial ballads with a full band as well as more sparse acoustic lullabies that have you feeling a whole lot more sombre, the record is wonderfully diverse in composition. There’s even more experimental electronic strewn across to make it that much more interesting. Considering influences range from The Beatles to Frank Ocean, the record is bound to be excessively eclectic. Recorded with a collaboration of friends from all across the world, the end result is a flowery and immensely pleasing album to fall back and listen to.
‘Today Was Nice’, the album’s opener, is far too short for my liking. It’s so innately dreamy and soothing, having you feel like there’s just so much to live for even when you’re having an incredibly rough day. That ethereal atmosphere and breezy feeling pervades through most of the album, slightly hazy and blurred but altogether warm and fuzzy. The vocal performance, deep and slightly clouded, is an unmistakable highlight. Beyer’s voice is unique among modern folk, far lower but equally assured and pleasing to fall in love with.
The shorter songs like ‘Nightwave’ and ‘Todos Nadando’ are my personal favourites. The latter is perhaps the most minimal piece on the album. Recorded with ambient sounds around and with an atmosphere that feels like you’re hearing Beyer perform in a small bar right in front of you, it’s loaded with feeling. ‘Nightwave’ is more full bodied, with the electric guitar doing due part in elevating the track’s feeling.
All in all, ‘Off Sunset’ is the perfect weekend record. It’s the kind of album you want to play on a Sunday morning, with not a care in the world bothering you as you let One Matt Beyer’s serenading form of indie folk lull you into a deep state of pure joy.