‘Brother’ is a folk-indie inspired single from the Australian singer-songwriter Matt Corby. Recently Fearne Cotton’s ‘Record of the Week’, the gospel style backing vocals and acoustic, live sound of the track is a refreshing step away from the manufactured pop expected of an Australian Idol runner-up (2007). His music is reminiscent of Ben Howard; so, with that in mind, it’s no surprise he’s been dubbed the new up and coming artist for the young folk following that’s been sweeping the music industry up in cloud of tweed and facial hair thanks to Mumford & Sons. Corby was nominated for 3 ARIA (Australian Record Industry Association) awards this year including Song of the Year for ‘Brother’.
It’s a mature take on a foot-stomping folk track
The lyrics are sentimental but as Corby describes them, ‘really personal which is why there’s a bit of ambiguity’. It’s a mature take on a foot-stomping folk track. The wolf-style howls that back Corby’s heart-felt lyrics add to the passionate feel of the track. The single has a strong sing-a-long element, and I’m sure listening to it only on my ipod doesn’t do it justice. This is a song that must be screamed along to at a festival wearing wellies and knee deep in mud to really appreciate it. Corby’s gruff, strong vocals only enhance the folk style of the track and the ease with which he runs up and down the vocal register just add to my appreciation of his home grown ‘Aussie’ talents. All in all it’s a folk track with feeling and dance capability, thanks to a strong beat and welcome symbol here and there.
