Single Review: Matt Hodson - Sun and Moon

Originally from West Yorkshire, alt-pop artist Matt Hodson has spent the lockdown creating brand new music, and his latest single ‘Sun and Moon’ is undoubtedly his most ambitious release to date.

Through the layered vocals, we are instantly introduced to Matt’s unconventional harmonic choices, with the first verse presenting rhythmic vocals and giving a sense of agitation in the buildup to the chorus. When Nikki Wilson enters it adds a new sonic dimension to the track, with Matt and Nikki’s voices blending together into a gorgeous lush sound, with the contrasts in pitch and tone complimenting each other beautifully.

Bright and upbeat in nature, this section perhaps depicts the sun, with the following section depicting a contrasting moon. Leading into the second half, the track becomes entirely acapella, creating a more serene and somewhat solemn atmosphere. The wistful, cascading melody on the lyrics “goodbye, goodbye” offers a contrast to the lighter elements at the start of the track. This motif is developed and transformed in numerous ways throughout the rest of the song.

The voices then start to become more distant and the track ends with an intake of breath, highlighting how intricate and complex this track is. As a young emerging artist, this is only the beginning of Matt Hodson’s incredibly promising music career. We can definitely expect this unique artist to be a core part of the Northern music scene in the future.

Words: Alice Hill

Listen to Matt Hodson on the Only A Northern One Spotify playlist here.