Some records just downright make you feel good the second they start! "Ebb and Flow" from Prettier Than Matt is exactly that kind of album as soon as “See You in ‘22” kicks off. The duo of Jessica Skinner Sims and Jeff Pitts have been at this for a while now, and this fifth album sounds like two people who've figured out exactly what makes their chemistry so special. It's a blast of what they call “Americana Pop”, though they'd probably admit no label really captures what they do.

At just 9 songs and 31 glorious minutes, the record moves with a lovely, easy momentum. There's no filler here and no wasted time, just a tight collection of songs that stays fun from start to finish. It's the kind of album that flies by and you'll probably find yourself hitting play again before you've even thought about it. We know we did…

Jessica's vocals are a major highlight right off the bat. Her voice is beautiful and warm, and she brings so much range to these songs, moving between tender, inviting moments and brighter, more playful ones without ever losing that welcoming quality. On the other hand, Jeff's vocals are outstanding as well! He brings his own character and charm to the mix, but it's when the two of them sing together that the magic really happens. Their harmonies are simply perfect, blending in a way that only comes from years of making music side by side. Since meeting through a mutual friend back in 2010, they've clearly built something special, and it shows in every shared line.

The instrumentation is fantastic and surprisingly varied for a duo. Armed with a ukulele, a guitar, and improvised percussion made with their own feet, they create a sound that feels much bigger than the tools at hand. It's lighthearted without ever being slight, giving each song its own personality while keeping the whole record cohesive. Some personal favorites from us, even though the entirety of the record is worth a spin, were definitely “Better Me”, “Gingerbread Crumbs”, and “Washed in the Tide” featuring Admiral Radio.

We also felt this was a very lyric-focused record. The songs invite you to lean in and listen and the storytelling gives the album a lot of its heart. Much like their live shows, which turn stages into “intimate living rooms”, the album has this cozy, conversational feeling, like you're being let in on something personal and a little bit funny. Maybe it’s the production of keeping things feeling intimate, but the direction they chose was 100% the right one.

The balance is really what makes "Ebb and Flow" so enjoyable. It respects the craft of songwriting without ever taking itself too seriously and the joy of making music together shines through in every moment. You can literally feel them having fun!

All in all, "Ebb and Flow" is a warm, harmony rich, thoroughly delightful listen. Jessica Skinner Sims and Jeff Pitts have made an album that we already know we’re going to be coming back to. We suggest you do the same, so please, click those links below to give it a listen and of course to follow along to make sure you’re up to date on all the news. If you’re nearby an upcoming show, grab a ticket!

Listen to “Ebb and Flow”
Spotify

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Prettier Than Matt bring endless joy & harmony to album, "Ebb and Flow"