“Unfamiliar Faces” is yet another dose of California sunshine from singer/songwriter Matt Costa. The album is a predictable follow-up to 2006’s “Songs We Sing,” but we’re always thankful for more infectious hooks to hum. What else can you expect from Jack Johnson’s label, Brushfire Records, which touts the talent of G. Love & Special Sauce, Animal Liberation Orchestra and at one point, Donavon Frankenreiter?
Considering the circumstances that led to his stardom playing guitar to pass the time during recovery from a career-ending skateboarding accident – it is fortunate that Costa’s homemade demo made it into the hands of Tom Dumont, guitarist of the ska band No Doubt.
Since their collaboration, Costa has been producing warm, acoustic songs for lazy afternoons. He fuses ragtime, psychedelic and folk influences in a unique way.
For “Unfamiliar Faces,” Costa said he set his most treasured belongings in front of him and let the memories flow. “That way I could see everything that I loved,” he said. The collection included a favorite book, a giant wooden pipe and a box of old 45-speed records from the 1950s.
Staccato piano notes and squawking brass sections contrast the mellow tone of Costa’s voice, while the harmonica in “Never Looking Back” creates a lonesome, bluesy vibe.
Costa’s lyrical skills are showcased in “Lilacs.” Phrases of nonsense imagery such as “Dreamed I choked on your kaleidoscope” make the song, like its namesake flower, lovely.
Those who have studied abroad will appreciate “Vienna.” Costa employs repetition and gentle key changes to put listeners in a dreamy, sentimental state. He sings, “I’m running through the streets of Zürich/ Calling all the trains in Europe/ To bring her…to me.”
“Miss Magnolia” is the liveliest track thanks to the quick tempo and banjo accompaniment reminiscent of Mungo Jerry’s rockabilly hit, “In The Summertime.” Other tracks, most notably the title track, “Unfamiliar Faces,” disappoint with their lack of innovation and exploration. Still, it is a solid record that will be well received after its release Tuesday.
If nothing else convinces someone to buy the album, consider that Brushfire Records is a member of One Percent for the Planet, an organization that inspires businesses to contribute 1 percent of their sales to nonprofit environmental groups around the world.
Shelly Hansen can be reached at [email protected].
