With the release of “Others,” Matthew Smith Group boldly explores new musical territory, expanding on the psychedelic sounds that have emerged from Detroit. For those familiar with his previous group, Outrageous Cherry, which significantly influenced the city’s music and art scene for almost thirty years, this track offers a blend of familiar and fresh experiences. Like finding a hidden room in a house you thought you knew inside and out.
“Others” features a driving beat supported by Colleen Burke’s steady bass and Maria Nuccilli’s dynamic drumming, which together create a touching rhythm that shifts unexpectedly. While the songwriter’s creative input is central to the piece, it’s the combination of the new band’s sounds that makes the song feel alive and evolving. Ava East’s guitar adds a delicate touch, while Chris Pottinger’s synthesizer injects an otherworldly vibe. Just when you think you know where the song is headed, Molly Jones’s saxophone enters, blending rock and jazzy improvisation. The overall feel is urgent yet dreamlike.
Returning to music with a new project after the beloved Outrageous Cherry ended in 2017, following the death of guitarist Larry Ray, is no easy feat. Instead of attempting to recreate the past, the artist uses “Others” to chart a new path. While the catchy melodies, artistic exploration, and warm, folk-like qualities from his past are still present, they now mix with more adventurous, contrasting sounds and a willingness to embrace unpredictability.
What makes “Others” particularly impactful is its natural flow, even amidst its quirks. It’s not simply a rehash of old ideas or a thoughtful look back, it represents the next chapter for an artist who thrives in the spaces between genres. It captures years of songwriting experience, along with the excitement of a new group still discovering its potential.
Follow Matthew Smith Group on Instagram