Melton, Matthew – “Outside of Paradise” – [Southpaw Records]

Naysayer   3/4/2015   12-inch, A Library

Matthew Melton, of Warm Soda, is a prolific, sort of “outsider”, power pop/garage rock West Coast cult performer who writes his own songs about pathos and longing, yet performed in this most upbeat manner that catches you by surprise half way through a listening. The tunes on “Outside of Paradise” are extra songs he had recorded between 2007 and 2014. Each song is this great little 3 minute (give or take some seconds) power bomb of danceable head wagging fun, with a whole bunch of sad mixed in. Guitar heavy, played by Melton, along with bass and drums, played mostly by him, with some assistance. He falls down on his knees when playing (and he’s serious). He wants you to go with him. He wears his leather jacket shirtless. He has bitchin’ early ’80’s hair and a mustache that wins. He plays kick ass guitar and sings his heart out. He is Matthew Melton. Viva Power Pop. Viva Matthew Melton.