Album Info
| Artist: | Cat Stevens |
| Album: | Matthew & Son |
| Released: | UK, 9 Feb 2024 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Matthew & Son | |
| A2 | I Love My Dog | |
| A3 | Here Comes My Baby | |
| A4 | Bring Another Bottle Baby | |
| A5 | Portobello Road | |
| Written-By - Stevens, Fowley | ||
| A6 | I've Found A Love | |
| A7 | I See A Road | |
| B1 | Baby Get Your Head Screwed On | |
| B2 | Granny | |
| B3 | When I Speak To The Flowers | |
| B4 | The tramp | |
| B5 | Come On And Dance | |
| B6 | Hummingbird | |
| B7 | Lady |
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Description
Cat Stevens' debut album, Matthew & Son, released in 1967, is a fascinating glimpse into the early career of an artist who would go on to become one of the most beloved singer-songwriters of his generation. This record, produced by Mike Hurst, showcases a young Stevens (born Steven Demetre Georgiou) exploring a vibrant and eclectic pop sound, distinct from the more introspective and folk-oriented style he would later adopt.
The title track, "Matthew & Son", is undoubtedly the album's standout. With its catchy melody, lush orchestration, and sharp commentary on the monotony of working life, it became a hit single, reaching number two on the UK Singles Chart. The song's success helped establish Stevens as a promising new voice in the British pop scene. Its production, featuring a dynamic arrangement and a memorable harpsichord riff, reflects the influence of the burgeoning baroque pop movement of the time.
Another highlight is "I Love My Dog", Stevens' first single, which also charted in the UK. This charming and heartfelt tune, with its simple yet effective arrangement, hints at the more personal and reflective songwriting that would define his later work. The song's warmth and sincerity make it a timeless piece that still resonates with listeners today.
The album as a whole is a mix of styles, showcasing Stevens' versatility and willingness to experiment. Tracks like "Here Comes My Baby", later famously covered by The Tremeloes, and "Portobello Road" demonstrate his knack for crafting infectious melodies and vivid lyrical imagery. The production, while occasionally leaning towards the overly polished side, captures the energy and optimism of the 1960s pop scene.
Listening to Matthew & Son today, it's clear that Stevens was still finding his voice as an artist. The album's sound is more aligned with the commercial pop trends of the era than the deeply personal and philosophical music he would later create. However, there are glimpses of the introspective and poetic sensibility that would come to define albums like Tea for the Tillerman and Teaser and the Firecat.
Matthew & Son serves as an intriguing starting point in Cat Stevens' discography. While it may not have the same depth or cohesion as his later works, it offers a snapshot of a young artist brimming with potential and creativity. For fans of Stevens or 1960s pop music, this album is a delightful listen and an important piece of music history.
