M. Ward-Hold Time

1.) M. Ward-Hold Time



So, I've been looking forward to the new record from Matt Ward since 2006's masterpiece, 'Post War.' Every M. Ward record has something new to offer, and I expected 'Hold Time' to be no different. Unfortunately, something happened between the release of 'Post War' and last week's offering of 'Hold Time.' M. Ward joined up with Zoey Deschannel and together they put out an album under the moniker of 'She & Him' aptly titled, 'Volume One.' This album was received well by critics, however I question how much of Ward's catalog they were familiar with. With a brief tour supporting that album, Ward began to record songs for 'Hold Time' for the time being. Unfortunately, his attention must have been elsewhere. This album is a poor man's 'Post War', as half the songs are bland, and the other half can't hold a candle to his previous work. The Buddy Holly cover of 'Rave On' is probably the highlight here, which isn't really saying much. Luckily, M. Ward is getting more recognition than ever due to his work with Ms. Deschannel. Unfortunately, this album does not indicate how talented of a musician he is. Hopefully, those who pick this album out will be intrigued by the single 'Nobody But You' and check out his back catalog. For the meantime, we can look forward to the 2010 collaboration with Jim James and Conor Oberst - hopefully the break from Deschannel will get Matt back on track.

Overall rating; 3 out of 10