released: august 24, 2024

genre: electronic

from: london, uk

label: self-released

a few thoughts: lewisham-based matthew muli has quietly been having a prolific few years, releasing projects and singles, really honing on his sound in the process. he was brought to my attention through… well, emails (i need to get back to you pal, my apologies!), and through recommendations from friends and people with a good ear. every word is his new album, a 10-track project, self-produced and mixed by him, and with some of the moodiest, most introspective pieces of electronic and hip-hop music i’ve listened to recently. it’s refreshing! from the melodic guitar opener “scab”, with a spoken word piece that introduces us to his thoughts and emotions on love and living life in the big city, to the piano-led ballad sample of “new view”, matthew is able to combine melancholia in his compositions with a soulful and light beauty to it that feel hopeful. the subdued, introspective energy on “you meant what you said” is cool, while the haunting, beautiful, inspiring “this new beginning” has incredible drumming, with a vocal sample that shimmers over the warm instrumental. matthew’s voice grooves with the beat too. the warm guitar tones of “autumn lone leaf” are gorgeous, while “take courage” is an uplifting track with introspective messages of self belief and courage. the reversed electronic synths on “sunset” are hypnotic, while the soul sample and drumming on the closer “reassurance” ends on a reflective tone, as matthew ponders about life in all its colours. every word is a stellar body of work highlighting matthew muli’s talents as a producer, composer and writer. the future is bright!

the album: