Local Talent: IT IS RAIN IN MY FACE

General Manager

Matthew Jones is doing something amazing with his music. First off, who doesn‰’t want to listen to a band with a killer name like IT IS RAIN IN MY FACE?

After exploring his musical genius, there has yet to be a track that isn‰’t simply stunning. His melodic voice soars over the layered synths and acoustic guitars creating incredible ambiance at times and at other times, cutting and driving rhythms.

In his EP Wishbone which was released last year, his smoothness and tranquil sound is exemplified in the title track, “Wishbone”. The harmonies gliding over the acoustic guitar provide the perfect feeling for this wishful song. The dreamy feel continues through “InåÊLove Alone” and into “Name Is.” “Down in the Town”‰” is more guitar heavy yet still maintains the feel of the record. “So Just So” starts off hip-hop-ish and incorporates some Indian sounding melodies. “You Left Me There” end this brilliant EP with a more pop sounding track and the feeling that you cannot wait to hear his other songs. The amount of ideas he is able to put into this record while still sounding amazing is unreal. This EP is a great representation of Jones‰’ sound and music as it incorporates the many elements he includes so flawlessly in his music. Plus you can download it for FREE.

Fortunately for us, IT IS RAIN IN MY FACE has released his first full length LP this August. And what an LP it was. The self-titled album kicks off with “Pagaul” which captures the essence of IT IS RAIN IN MY FACE. The acoustic guitar is floated over layers of chopped synths and accompanied by Jones‰’ soothing voice. “Macknowledge” shows off his vocal skills and is a more simple song, yet still contains the complexities and ideas of the rest of the tracks. Literally every track on this album is great. From the more upbeat “Duck In A Row” and “A Break” (which has a fantastic synth solo at :26)åÊ to the more laid back track like “United” or the glitchier “Professional Harvest” this album offers a tremendous amount of talent and original ideas all wrapped into one.

If IT IS RAIN IN MY FACE was not on your iPod before this, I sure hope it is now. This D.C. based artist is doing big things and making some amazing music.

If you make music, live in D.C. and want to be featured on WVAU.org in our Local Talent column, please contact [email protected] with a link to your music.

By Nick Looney