Matt Costa: Matt Costa

Brushfire
Though California’s Matt Costa may be best known for sunny, rootsy music akin to his Brushfire brethren, his fourth album is significantly folksier. Recorded in Glasgow, Scotland, the album recalls the quiet, beautiful pop of the U.K. from the ‘60s and ‘70s. “Laura Lee,” full of acoustic guitar and organ, takes a page from The Beatles, while “Silver Sea” has Led Zeppelin mythological vibes. “Good Times” could be found on an Edward Sharpe album: It’s lush, buoyant, and full of horns and harmonies. “Golden Cathedrals,” meanwhile, could be a long-lost track to The Flaming Lips’ Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots. Though comparisons to other musicians abound, one of the standout tracks, “Ophelia,” is entirely Costa’s own with harmonica, honest lyrics and simple guitar. “Loving You” is another highlight: It’s upbeat and catchy, and would be perfect to listen to while watching the credits roll on an indie rom-com.