On the 18th, singer-songwriter Matt Alber will bring his skillful arrangements and soulful voice to Iowa City. Although he’s got a life story well suited for an ABC Movie of the Week (growing up in Black St. Louis, finding his voice in the gospel choir, moving to San Francisco, finding himself as a gay man, becoming successful, etc.), the music does not let any of this on.
Personal, emotional, beautifully produced, excellently orchestrated, 2008’s Hide Nothing is a gorgeous album that any artist would be proud to have to their resume. Alber combines powerful lyrics, lush orchestral arrangements and instrumentation, and a strong, provocative voice into making an album that sticks with you long after it has ended. With such a strong sensation, it is surprising to find out that this album is Alber’s first shot at being a singer-songwriter.
With our own band of troubadours Shame Stevens opening, this does promise to be a very good show. Go see Matt Alber Wednesday at the Englert. The show starts at 8. The tickets are $17 in advance and $20 at the door.
