matt maltese's 'krystal' shows listeners what the perfect breakup album sounds like
Words by Natalie Wozny, art by Benjamin Nicholson
I discovered Matt Maltese on Soundcloud when I was a freshman in high school. Maltese was still very small; I couldn’t tell you how I came across his music specifically, but I do know that the first song I listened to was “Even If It’s a Lie.” I remember overplaying this song until I knew all the lyrics. It seemed so pure because all listeners can hear is Maltese and piano. Due to all the dynamics, listeners can hear the emotion being poured into the song. It’s impossible not to sing along. After becoming addicted to that song, I needed more. I found “Studio 6.” This was the second Maltese song I obsessed over. Again a somber tune, this one had more background instrumentals but nothing crazy, focusing on Maltese’s vocals. It was still very mellow and gave off the same aura as “Even If It’s a Lie.”
I couldn’t get enough of these two songs, but I somehow never listened to any of Maltese’s other work until 2019. When I heard about Krystal, I was expecting the album to be in the style of the two songs I knew Maltese for. Before I heard the rest of the album, I listened to “Curl up & Die.” This song definitely did not disappoint. Another melancholy indie ballad, the song keeps a steady beat, making it calming, but at the same time keeping listeners tapping their toes with all the harmonies in the chorus.
I really liked this song, so when I went back to listen to the whole album I was originally a bit unimpressed. Not disappointed, just underwhelmed. However, the more times I listened to it, the more it grew on me. Every day, I have a new favorite song off the album. The opening number, “Rom-Com Gone Wrong,” is more upbeat, but shouldn’t be mistaken for anything with a lighthearted meaning — it’s quite the opposite. It lays out the tracks for the rest of the album, which is a set of heartbreak anthems. “Long baths, podcasts / I’m crying when I’m smashed / Haha, welcome to grieving” are among the lyrics to this first melody.
The next track, “Tall Buildings,” slows down the pace, which I enjoyed a bit more. This is the type of song to take a walk in the city to. It’s just a very relaxing piece. The piano solo at the end sets the song apart from the rest. Relaxing, but not boring, this has to be one of my favorites on the album. “Tokyo” is another more upbeat tune with clever lyrics. “Wish You’d Ask Me” is one of the more easy-going songs. I feel the need to sway side to side when listening to this song because it has a background composed of lo-fi beats. Listeners can still sense Maltese’s loneliness in this song, but it’s also oddly relatable because plenty of people have been in similar positions.
Maltese describes his longing for a certain lover once again in “Jupiter.” This song brings the tempo up and, compared to the other songs, isn’t as exciting. I still enjoy listening to “Jupiter,” but it’s slightly unoriginal, reminding me of many other indie songs. “Intolewd” is short but sweet at about a minute long, feeling slightly like background music played in a coffee shop.
“Krystal,” the song the album is named after, is simple, but that’s what makes it charming. Listeners can hear mostly just hear a guitar, drums, and Maltese’s voice singing about his love for an individual. Maltese’s heartbreak is prevalent, yet it makes listeners want to have a song written about themselves. Maltese’s vocals really make the song genuine and enjoyable to listen to. After “Curl up & Die,” the next track is “Human Remains.” I can’t help but hum along to this song, which has interesting melodies and a wide variety of instruments accompanying Maltese. The song is very dismal, but doesn’t make listeners want to sit down and cry.
The album ends on the same note as my first impression of listening to Maltese. “When You Wash Your Hair” is most like the two songs I originally fell in love with Maltese’s music for. It’s a slow tune, sung by a blue Maltese. It’s just him and the piano again, which listeners can picture as they listen to the song. It’s a perfect ending to the album and my favorite song on Krystal because it’s so bare and real.
The album only consists of ten songs, but I can’t say I truly dislike any of them. Maltese put many emotions on display throughout Krystal. Originally, I didn’t know if I was a fan of some of the more uptempo songs but eventually got attached to them. There is variety throughout the album but a common theme of heartbreak. It is the kind of album listeners would enjoy listening to while staring out the window of a car. Whether listeners want the perfect sad song to get them through a breakup or just a new alternative bop, they’re sure to find it on Krystal.