Ian Matthews - Seattle Years 1978-1984 (CD)

All Music Guide

Between 1978 and 1984, Ian Matthews relocated to Seattle, shed the acoustic folkiness and introspection he had become known for in favor of a more contemporary, commercial sound; The Seattle Years collects the highlights from the four solo albums he recorded during this period -- Stealin' Home, Siamese Friends, Spot of Interference, and Shook (unfortunately, the one album he did with Hi-Fi in the same period is sadly unrepresented). Though Matthews is best remembered for his work just prior to this period, the collection presents the high points into a highly listenable fashion and, in retrospect, his take on ultra-slick soft-rock stands up against the best of the genre. Included is his biggest hit, "Shake It," as well as lesser-known but well-executed album tracks like a new wave/power-pop reading of the Left Banke classic "She May Call You Up Tonight" and Jona Lewie's "The Baby She's on the Street."

- Chris Woodstra, All Music Guide