Ben Folds – What Matters Most

Releasedate:   2023
Label: New West Records

Benjamin Scott Folds is an American singer-songwriter from USA. Ben Folds played in various bands before, one of which carried his name. Also, he released solo material. “What Matters Most” being the latest. It saw light earlier this year.

The last solo effort was already dating back some years so the fans may be content with some new material in their hands. Mr versatile had spend his time working on other projects, but now the pianist is back at it. Ten tracks to listen to, stories taken from life. “Kristine From The 7th Grade” for example, has a level of melancholy over it that makes us smile, but also the more direct tracks like “Back To Anonymous” are easy to grab onto.
On this release you are getting an accessible sound that connects all songs on this release, mainly due to the excellent piano that Ben is providing. Lyrically, he does not only address the most glorious parts of life, but with a sense of awkwardness he shares his stories. You feel a bit of pity for the man at the end of the track list.

Altogether, this album of Ben Folds is a joy to listen to. Well composed and thought through. An experienced songwriter which seems to have no shortage on stories.

Tracklist

1. But Wait, There’s More
2. Clouds With Ellipses
3. Exhausting Lover
4. Fragile
5. Kristine From The 7th Grade
6. Back To Anonymous
7. Winslow Gardens
8. Paddleboat Breakup
9. What Matters Most
10. Moments (feat. Tall Heights)

Links:

Bandcamp