Harlan, Matt
Raven Hotel
Raven Hotel," the third CD from Matt Harlan, hangs together like a mural illustrating the urban images of daily life with pastoral reverence. Recorded in Austin, TX this collection marks a return to the sonic landscape Harlan introduced with his debut album, "Tips & Compliments," with Rich Brotherton (Rita Hosking, Robert Earl Keen) back in the producers chair. Harlan is a winner of multiple songwriting accolades, from outfits like American Songwriter and Billboard. As this collection shifts from jazzy torch songs, to roots-rock numbers and plaintive folksongs it becomes clear why he was featured alongside such legendary figures as Lyle Lovett and Guy Clark in the documentary, "For the Sake of the Song." On "Raven Hotel" Harlans voice has gained a smoothness that permeates these songs, easing listeners in to difficult topics like race relations ("Old Allen Road") or comforting them through tumultuous personal relationships ("We Never Met").