Matthew and the Atlas: I'm a Believer

Remember when I said I wasn't sure about the amped-up stylings of Matthew and the Atlas? I really, really take that back.

I caught the band at their one-off show at the Pickle Factory this past week. Along with old favorites like 'Within the Rose' and 'Into Gold', MATA played new songs (only two of which I knew—singles 'Elijah' and 'Temple') and now I'm a believer. They had that intangible something that takes songs from 'really good' to omgthisisspectacular. 

Of course, Matthew Hegarty has always had that power. If a gnarled old oak tree could sing, it would sound like him. But the new material doesn't sound like Matthew and a backing band—it's cohesive, and that takes their sound to a new level. 'Temple' is a perfect example, with its Arcade Fire-esque moments (see: the instrumental section around 1:10).

So, if Monday's show was any indication, new album Temple is going to be a triumphant return for Matthew and the Atlas. Preorder it here and check out the band's upcoming UK tour.