Diandra Reviews It All

Wow! Just WOW! One of the best concert I have ever had the pleasure to see, and it all boils down to the simple fact that Matthew Logan Vasquez (MLV) is pure talent. I have reviewed his album, Does What He Wants ,but hearing it live was as if music could become born-again. What was a phenomenal record became a phenomena through the musicianship, wit, and vocal control of MLV at Rough Trade NYC.
Matthew Logan Vasquez – Same

First, as a woman that studied opera, I am obsessed with the control of MLV. He tosses his vocal notes as one would a stack of cards. He throws them to the crowd, of which each audience member feels like they got an ace. From a rasp that sounds like it was personal made from gravel to a high note that could compete with wind-chimes, I was floored by the ease MLV has over his voice and guitar. What, for the audience, would appear as a vocal play or guitar trick, for him, is nature. He is simply REALLY GOOD, and when you go to see a musician who has exceptionalism as talent; it leaves you in awe. How can greatness be casual? “Same”, “Old Ways”, and “Fires Down In Mexico” were like ambers from a fire scorching the night with a raucous, Western sensibility. Rough Trade NYC might as well have been Rough Trade Austin, with an air that felt infused by tequila and an Alamo feel. MLV has a wonderful, dry wit to him that made his sarcasm roll into the crowd like cool tumbleweeds in a desert of music that had a surprising amount of Delta Spirit classics and covers. With a melody of “Scarecrow”, “Bushwick Blues”, and “People Turn Around”, the crowd was hushed by both his musicianship and MLV, himself. He was clear and humorous to the audience when he needed their silence for his solos, of which he could lull a fussy baby into sweet dreams. Wherever MLV goes, your mind follows, especially because he is so friendly. He happily chatted with the crowd as his fellow bandmates enjoyed the audience- bought drinks, and dedicated a cover of Leonard Cohen’s “Old Revolution” to Trump’s Impeachment, of which he felt would come soon. The crowd laughed and cheered, but, overall, was humbled that they were getting such an amazing and emotional show.
Matthew Logan Vasquez – OLD WAYS featuring Lili Hayes ( Official Music Video)

Whether you want to gleefully head-bang your thoughts to guitar arrangements that like fall barrels of whiskey or you want to sweetly recall better days in a voice that brews nostalgia with every note, MLV is one for all. I would see him a thousand times again because he is a guarantee great concert. You cannot play and sing like him, or make Willie Nelson jokes, and ever disappoint a crowd. For More Information On Matthew Logan Vasquez And To See His Tour Click Here.