matt pond PA - The Nature of Maps | Polyvinyl Record Co.

The Nature of Maps

Release Date: October 15, 2002

Less than a year after releasing its critically acclaimed third album, The Green Fury, matt pond PA returned with The Nature of Maps. The album was recorded and produced on their home turf of Philadelphia by the band and Brian McTear (The Green Fury) at Brian's minerstreet/cyclesound studio.

The record is classic mpPA -- one that finds the band perfecting its unique sound with beautiful songs where guitar/vocals, drums, and bass are coupled with cello, violin, and vibraphone arrangements.

Despite Matt Pond being the group's primary singer-songwriter, The Nature of Maps, was a holistic, collaborative project with each band member -- including percussionist Mike Kennedy (Audible), guitarist Jim Kehoe (Audible) and cellist Eve Miller (Rachel's) -- contributing heavily to the songwriting process.

Reviews

Pond's voice and acoustic guitar strike you like love at first sight.

- Lollipop
Nature of Maps is a refreshing mix of classical instrumentation andthoughtfully driven pop/rock melodies.

- Swingset
The Nature of Maps weldspretty strings to rock instrumentation, giving the usual indie-rock jangle adesigner upgrade.

- Blender
These 12 tracks are compositions to the fullest extent, filling thelistener up with the realization of the power of music in its richest form.

- All Music Guide
A delicate pop sensation.

- CMJ
Serving up a tasty indie-rock buffet heavy on inviting guitar, celloand Pond's David Bazan-esquevocals.

- Alternative Press
Ideas and emotions come through as clearly through instrumentation asthey do through lyrics - The Nature ofMaps is thoroughly impressive in this aspect.

- 30Music