7 Sweet Soulful Songs by Matt Hires ...

1. Honey, Let Me Sing You a Song

On iTunes at: itunes.apple.com

This is one of my favorite songs by Matt Hires, and not just because it's the first one I've ever heard. It's a lovely little love song with a beat that saves it from being so sappy. The repetition, rather than being lazy, lends a really fun vibe to the rhythm. I adore this song so much that I'm planning to dedicate it to Heather at our wedding this fall!

2. Restless Heart

On iTunes at: itunes.apple.com

Don't let the upbeat rhythm fool you. This is an excellent hater song, ideal for playing at top volume when someone's getting under your skin. “Pretty girls come from the ugliest places,” Matt sings, and I think we all know someone like that – though it doesn't just apply to girls at all. When someone screws you over hugely, you can vent with the lyrics while letting the beat lift you up above whatever ugly thing is happening.

3. Forever

On iTunes at: itunes.apple.com

I love the beginning of this song, but then, I've never been able to resist a little crooning. It's kind of romantic and kind of fatalistic at the same time. You know those moods, and odds are you've felt like this, especially when you're in the depths of a new love or a massive crush.

4. Out of the Dark

On iTunes at: itunes.apple.com

This song is an excellent example of the pure poetry Matt exhibits in his lyrics – and it's why I love musicians who write their own music so much better than canned pop. “In a strange, strange place, I'm lying on the edge of a star/ In these violent days, I only wanna be where you are.” I love imagery like that. Again, you get slightly darker lyrics against a really fast, almost happy rhythm, and the contrast is a killer.

5. Wishing on Dead Stars

On iTunes at: itunes.apple.com

The title of this track first caught my attention. The second I started listening, it was all about the drums (my dad rocks the drums, I'm a fan). Something about this song makes me think of summer, my past, my parents, West Virginia … it's one of those songs that will appeal to some part of your life, no matter what you've been through. We were only wishing on dead stars, y'all.

6. Signal in the Sky

On iTunes at: itunes.apple.com

This is another song filled with just really excellent lines, and they all come together into a masterpiece of music. “The record's spinning while you dance with your temporary ghost” is probably my favorite line, and you'll find that the first verse sets the tone for the entire tune. If you've ever lost someone, to anything, or watched someone you love go through something heartbreaking, I promise this song will speak to you.

7. Turn the Page

On iTunes at: itunes.apple.com

This song really puts me in mind of Mumford and Sons. It's the rhythm, the emotions, and the imagery, mostly. It's not just a song, you see, but a story. This kid, though young, clearly knows pain, triumph, heartbreak, and happiness, and you have to respect anyone who can turn those feelings into something like this. The entire first verse – “My heart has flown to fields of flowers and open roads/ While I'm left lying in my bed/ And the darkness holds little rest for weary bones/ Now turn the page, the chapter's ending.” – gives me the chills.

What do you think of Matt Hires? The sad thing is, I could have included his entire discography, but that seemed a little excessive. Rarely these days do I come across a musician whose entire body of work pleases me, so I'm always so glad when it happens. Have you heard Matt yet? Let me know your favorite song(s)!