Fresh from the upcoming EP My Tell-Tale Heart, Matthew L Farris’ Rose Colored Glasses hits the hip hop scene with a fresh air of integrity and an uninhibited, creatively free style.
While a track that quickly captivates for its unapologetic honesty, the pre-chorus defiantly becomes a stand out moment – it offers resolve and respite from the intensity of the verses, a moment to reflect; it’s perfectly lyrically crafted and is followed up by a simple yet alternatively melodic hook. The verses are of course where the details lie though, clearly articulate writing pours through amidst deeply honest observations on the self.
The angst and performative nature of the delivery unites with this classic hip hop soundscape to offer an Eminem or Hopsin style of artistry. In reality though, Farris’ voice is a thing of its own, and there’s far more of a diary-like energy to the lyrics here – things don’t veer off towards metaphor or outwardly descriptive elements all that notably.
Topically detailing mental health issues, isolation, alcoholism and drug abuse, Rose Colored Glasses begs for a brighter view of the world. It’s a deeply relatable concept and Farris’ openness is undoubtedly one of his strongest selling points.
The upcoming EP offers a respectable level of eclecticism but holds close to this now familiar Farris sound. The musical style – often piano-led ambiances with mellow, classic beats – sticks to a certain format, maintaining a particular mood. Lyrically though, Farris digs deep into a plethora of topics.
Alone is perhaps the most experimental and unusual of the playlist, taking a haunting, atmospheric approach, with less lyrical density and just a few distinct ideas at play. Overcome is something of a highlight, subtly tipping its hat to contemporary hip hop but also utilizing melody and space, conceptual depth, to a strong degree. Confessional is undoubtedly one of the more detailed, specific tracks – a piece dedicated to Farris’ father and the impact of his death. A new flow, short rhymes, an emotive soundscape, help draw your attention from the offset.
Undoubtedly an artist paving his own way, staying true to his unique qualities, writing for therapeutic reasons and laying bare an unquestionable truth in the process.
Download or stream Matthew L. Farris’ music here. Find & follow him on Facebook, Spotify, Twitter & Instagram or grab exclusives via Patreon.
