Pop duo sensation, Promis & Matthews, is out to prove that combining different musical styles can result in brand new modern pop hit.
Promis & Matthews have released their latest studio effort, Sunset Blvd. It not only combines elements found in pop music today, such as catchy melodies and creative lyrics, but folds in layers of influences from old world music to electronica British pop.
Jose Promis is a Chilean-born singer/songwriter and has been working on music since back in 2005. British musician/producer Ian Matthews has worked on many of Promis' solo efforts and together they have released albums as a duo. As a duo this album shows off their musicianship and how their musical partnership has evolved over the years.
Promis is known for playing a wide variety of venues in L.A. and for spending time over in Europe crafting his sound. Sunset Blvd combines that learned musical knowledge with a fun, carefree spirt that results in a interesting interruption of pop music. Matthews adds his own flavor with influences like electronica and British pop music developing as the album moves from track to track.
The album opens with "Sunset Blvd" and this single sets the tone for the rest of the album but it also highlights the short falls of the record. Promis lacks a dynamic vocal range, which could not only elevate the music but draw more attention to the lyrics. That critical element that could pull everything together on the album, fails to do so. Instrumentally this album is complex and brings in a variety of influences which makes listening to each song unique. Strong vocals could have added another layer of complexity to an already interesting album.
Stand out tracks on the album include, "Nobody Ever Leaves A Star," "Hanging Onto Hollywood" and "Dinner With Friends."
This does feel like an album, not just singles put together to sell downloads but as a whole it needs more polishing. Promis & Matthews have talent but they need to respect their weaknesses and find a producer that will highlight their musical strengths instead.