MATCHUP, THE: Straight to the Core: LP

Jan 05, 2022

The Matchup is new to me, but apparently this French-Canadian acoustic pop punk duo existed in some form or another for the past fifteen years. It’s their fourth record, and I found it quite endearing. Acoustic folk punk has its detractors, but the simplicity of the two genres it blends makes it an obvious form for many to explore. The lyrics on this album are never cringe-worthy, despite their knowingly sappy focus on self-exploration. Vocal harmonies are used sparsely, but to terrific effect when present. The Matchup works on all levels, serving as yet another example of effective use of acoustic guitar in punk. –Art Ettinger (Hell For Breakfast, hellforbreakfast.com)

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