Description
You are The Healer is Mattrsquos second solo album, and his first since leaving Mother Earth and his former label Acid Jazz. The first release on Mattrsquos own Barley Wheel label was delayed until 2000 following a long running dispute with Acid Jazz that was finally resolved with Matt regaining ownership and releasing the album himself. Recorded in a converted chapel in the North East of England it features drummer and folk percussionist Liam Genockey along with his partner in rhythm Tim Harries on double bass. Liam had played on John Martynrsquos lsquoSundayrsquos Childrsquo album which was a favourite of Mattrsquos at the time. They were joined in the studio by keyboard wizard Brian Auger who put down hammond and piano on several tracks. The album was recorded in two weeks, and with backing vocals throughout from Nicola BrightThomas Mattrsquos then wife who also takes the lead on two she co wrote, there are clear parallels with John and Beverley MartynrsquosnbspStormbringernbspas well as inevitable comparisons withnbspDavey Graham, Nick Drake, and PentanglersquosnbspSolomonrsquos Seal.nbspThis was the album that confirmed Matt to the world as a solo artist here to stay after wowing those who knew withnbspVillager. A timeless record, impeccably written and performed by serious musicians at the top of their game.The album has been remastered from the original studio master mixes by Russ HepworthSawyer.The influences are out front, primarily John Martyn, with Nick Drake and David Crosby thrown in… although the overall feeling is Scritti Politi stripped of the electronics. The word melliflous seeps over you as you listen… nbspThe Guardian 45Matt Deighton has something unique about him and this You Are The Healer is a winning selection… its been worth the wait. A Modern Classic that just has to be the HFC Album of the Month nbspSounds MagazineIt is impossible to imagine fans of Nick Drake and John Martyn not falling in love with himnbspnbspSunday Times
