Matt Hutchinson - Three Minute Man

Matt Hutchinson

Three Minute Man
self-released; 2014

3.5 out of 5

By Jamie Funk

I could tell almost right away that listening to the recent release Three Minute Man by Matt Hutchinson was going to be a treat. Hutchinson took no shortcuts with this release and he compiled ten fairly eclectic songs. The songs are quite varied stemming from alternative to Americana but all of which at their heart are pop. Hutchinson has a knack for delivering accessible, highly enjoyable ear candy that only cynics would dismiss.

One thing I need to applaud here is the production. The record quite frankly sounds stellar from an aesthetic perspective. Suffice it to say these songs are radio ready. 

Hutchison does attempt a number of different styles but never moves the needle too far. That being said Hutchinson could have made this release a bit more consistent. The opener “Only You” is a bit of a hoe down that sounds like a mixture of bluegrass and the E-street Band. It's a really fun song anyway you look at it. Sing to it or dance to it; hell you can even being sorting out your laundry. “Open” is powerful Americana that pretty much explodes over its three- plus minutes while “Up In My Room” is pure power pop that is arguably the catchiest song on the album.

I’m not sure if the beginning of “Why Don't You Come Down” was a purposeful tip of the hat to “Jesse's Girl” but the riff and delivery are almost identical. It’s a solid song but sounds really similar. Hutchinson also has a sensitive side as he shows on “The Good China.” The song is practically straight up country pop.

The highlight of the album was the closer “From a Friend to a Friend.” Hutchinson sometimes fits a bit too snug into a particular genre but this song displayed his originality. Being a unique musician isn’t easy but this is a solid start.

Hutchinson is a good songwriter but he also seems a bit confused at times where he ultimately wants to land. He will probably have to choose a style or risk ostracizing an audience. Food for thought. Truth be told I’m not too worried as he has the skills to succeed in the path he chooses.

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