Matty & Subtle Validation delivers a sturdy batch of timid tunes on their EP Imperfect Songs for an Imperfect World. Juxtaposing a unique and emotive vocal delivery over delicately fingerpicked acoustic guitars, these songs make for an odd concurrence of eerie and familiar, intense and relaxed, deliberate and passive.

The majority of these lovely tunes seem to strive for familiarity and comfort. The lead vocal is slightly unorthodox in its forcefulness, and sometimes feels at odds with the hushed mode of the music – though the result is not unpleasant. While the instrumentation suggests the calmer modes of Sufjan Stevens, the vocals hearken back to some of the more pastoral 90s bands like Live (“Lightning Crashes” etc).

The songwriting and production take a traditional approach. The songs evolve and flow like a stream finding its way to its natural outlet. Progressions remain in their standard keys; harmonies emerge just when you feel they should. The path of least resistance sometimes lends itself to predictability, especially when compared to the few moments the EP extends beyond its comfort zone.

Second track “All these Pleas” is a complete outlier on this EP, with an uptempo indie-pop feel to it. The vocals in this scenario lend the music gravitas, like Hozier’s crooning over a Cage the Elephant bop.  “Lift Me Away” sets itself apart by implementing a bracing falsetto, softening the edges without undermining the force of the vocals’ delivery.

There’s room in most of these songs for additional instrumentation to help contextualize the interplay between guitar and vocals. Despite some tasteful accompaniment from banjo, mandolin, and pedal steel, these are barebones tracks that manage to hold up primarily from the performances alone. Imperfect Songs for an Imperfect World proves that Matt & the Subtle Validation have the talent to do much more than merely hold up, though, and I hope they continue taking steps toward fulfilling that potential.