Matthew Ebel

Item: Filling the Pages
Author: Kerry Maffeo

Filling the Pages

(2001)

Reviewed by Kerry Maffeo

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Label independentThe Phantom Tollbooth2001

adult contemporary ccm piano rock singer-songwriter

With his second indie release, Filling the Pages, singer/songwriter Matthew Ebel once again joins the many independent artists who warrant a label.

Hailing from rainy Spokane, Washington, Ebel's music and lyrics reflect a bright spot in the midst of a dreary and often gloomy state. Grassroots, piano-driven musical beds are cheerfully combined with strong lyrics and vocals.

Filling the Pages opens with the title track-a warm and upbeat piano-based cut, reminiscent of a Keith Green epic. The song speaks eloquently about making choices in life and living without fear. Based on Isaiah 26:7, the song takes on a life of its own with the various flutes, strings and other instruments flowing throughout the track. "I believe and I am not afraid/I'm filling the pages with stories and choices I've made."

Track three, "Sally Went Down," is a folky song about the consequences of a lukewarm Christian walk. This track is a definite toe-tapper, with a choppy, jazz-feel piano base. This is one song you'll want to listen to over and over.

"All I Want Is You" and "Someone's Out There" are relational songs, speaking of romance and friendship, respectively. Both are soaring, flowing, yet sweet, ballads with thoughtful lyrics speaking of the needs and desires for companionship and support each human possesses.

Between raw vocal songs like "Devotional Song #21" and acoustic guitar tracks like "Rain," this album demonstrates a full range of musical talents and abilities, all tied together by the warm vocals and natural lyrics of Ebel.

"Coming Home" is a beautifully harmonized track comparing the long road between Nashville and Spokane-and the relief in returning home-with straying from the faith and returning once again. "And though it felt so good to leave, so good to be alone/Then the road rose up to meet me/I'm coming home!"

The album finishes with the bright, upbeat "I Will Follow," which is a battle cry of Ebel's determination to stand firm in his faith.

Filling the Pages is a well-produced, well-imagined album capturing the beauty and sensitivity of an experienced songwriter.

5 tocks