This Ain’t Over by Matt McCarthy
Nottingham-based songwriter Matt McCarthy returns with his fourth single, "This Ain't Over," a track he confidently claims as his best work yet. Recorded at the JT Soar studio, the song is imbued with gritty, rock-infused energy, layered with indie guitar riffs that draw clear inspiration from Johnny Marr. As someone now caught up with Matt’s journey, there’s a lot to appreciate in this latest release, though it may not entirely eclipse some of his earlier work.
"This Ain't Over" is thematically inspired by the intense dynamics between two characters from the popular TV series 'Money Heist,' which adds a layer of narrative intrigue to the track. The song’s structure is tight, with sharp guitar work that echoes the familiar tones of bands like The Foo Fighters, particularly reminiscent of "The Pretender." However, while the song captures a similar raw energy, it almost but not quite reaches the anthemic heights of its inspiration.
One of the song’s strengths is its infectious melody, which is likely to resonate with both new listeners and long-time fans. The indie riffs are catchy and contribute to a sound that feels both familiar and fresh, with a great opening that hooks you in. Despite these positive attributes, "This Ain't Over" might not leave as lasting an impression as some of Matt’s previous singles, such as "Come and Go," "Follow Me," and especially "Bright House," which is a personal favourite.
While “This Ain't Over” showcases Matt's growth and is a strong entry in his catalogue, it may not quite capture the same level of punch and emotional depth that made some of his earlier tracks stand out. Where "This Ain't Over" truly shines is in its demonstration of Matt’s growth as an artist. The production is polished, and the passion behind the music is evident. It's a solid addition to his discography.
"This Ain't Over" is a good track that showcases Matt McCarthy's consistent ability to produce quality music. While I feel it may not be his strongest release to date, it’s a testament to his ongoing evolution as an artist. For listeners new to his work, this track serves as a strong introduction.
The track has just been released. Give it a listen.