Matthew Osborne

When he died unexpectedly this past April at the age of 32, long-time fixture of the Southern Ontario folk scene Matt Osborne was just beginning to reach wider audiences. Such a premature death often sparks much belated praise, something Osborne always reluctantly accepted. However, no one was more deserving, both for his musical presence on stage, and the influence he had on those around him. Osborne was nearly finished recording this album at the time of his death, and huge credit goes to band mate and producer Arun Pal for assembling this collection, with some songs dating back to 1993. Some will be familiar to any hardcore fan as they were staples of Osborne’s set for years. Largely unaccompanied, many of the performances capture the essence of Osborne’s tremendous voice and guitar playing in a pure live-off-the floor setting. On top of that is the perfect balance between humour and insecurity that he managed so well, displayed in songs like "50 30 20,” "Fallin’ Blues,” and "Baby’s Cryin’.” Matthew Osborne gives those who loved him the opportunity for one more show, and those who never heard him a chance to finally experience his candour and deeply felt emotions. Although he was not world-renowned, those who knew Matt thought the world of him and this album is a worthy send off.