Music
Press
The album was originally intended to follow an all solo and acoustic format. But Mastropaolo found that as the recording process started it grew into a much fuller production and was pleased with the results. “I feel like I am really putting myself out there with this first release and I am excited to hear the response.” As for the song content, Mastropaolo’s deep messages of hope and love are felt through his lyrics and eclectic style on the acoustic guitar. “A lot of the songs are about seeing the brighter side of something negative.” Mastropaolo comments, “[…] I always want to take a step back from life and realize what really matters to me, instead of worrying about the small things […] this is what I want people to get out of listening to my music.”
His lyrics do not fall short of this intent. The featured song, “Sticks & Stones” is a warm beat accompanied by a vocal message of Mastropaolo’s hope that we haven’t given up on looking for love in a time where we are surrounded by war and choosing sides. Mastropaolo wrote this song shortly after the 9/11 attacks and explains that it is a reflection of the place he was in after the attacks. At the time, the media was filled with stories that reflected victims and their sorrows. Mastropaolo reflects the media phenomenon and how it may be affecting American’s in the line “In a world of such half truths, why is someone else singing our blues.” It was no doubt a mournful time in our nation’s history, and Mastropaolo refers to feeling he has to “pick a side” and has a desire to “get off this backwards ride.” But the soulful message of hope is encompassed in the lines “I think we may be running out of luck; look at all the things we’ve given up. I really hope we haven’t given up love; Cause that’s what I’ve been dreaming of.” The song is one where you’ll find yourself wanting to listen to while laying in the sun and contemplating what’s really important to you.
A particular favorite song of mine is “The Monkey Song.” This songs beat has a little more of an lively feel than that of “Sticks & Stones” and has a more in-depth musical accompaniment. The lyrics, though, express the moving truth that we are too focused on our troubles to see the splendor of the world. There is a lot of turmoil in our hungry, tired and violent world, but there is also a lot of beauty and we should take the time to open our eyes and see it.
Mastropaolo’s album is one that reflects a combination of styles from John Mayer, Jack Johnson and, of course, Dave Matthews. It is music you will find yourself listening to while lounging with friends on the porch on a sunny day. I recommend picking up this album to anyone who is interested I rich music that will muse and inspire them through a strong male voice and a warm guitar. - Caitlin Doolin
Discography
Sticks & Stones (2008)
1. The Monkey Song
2. Sticks & Stones
3. All I Need
4. Sophia
5. The Best Way
6. For the Fairest
7. Laughing at Love
8. Feelings to Heal
9. Bound
10. Under the Table
Photos
Bio
A recent graduate of Bucknell University, Mastropaolo filled coffee shops and wineries in Central Pennsylvania on his way to developing a fan base who has compared his style most commonly to Jack Johnson, and James Taylor. Mastropaolo's influences aren't far off from that, including Dave Matthews and Bob Marley, and Bill Withers. He approaches song-writing with an ear that isn't bound by one genre. This gives his music a broad range of possibilities but one thing is certain, the message is always there. With his fall 2008 release, Mastropaolo hopes to evoke feelings of hopefulness and love in the listener while providing a powerful base to evoke a change in their everyday thinking. This is no small task for a 22 year old raised just outside Portland, Maine. With a rhythm section including Paul Smith of the Badlees and Jeremy Hummel, founding member of Breaking Benjamin the message is conveyed effectively.
Standing 6'8'' Mastropaolo already commands attention but when the music starts, there is a connection between audience and performer that is rare in the modern music scene. His performances include live looping of rhythms and melodies that back his singer/songwriter vibe to create a unique expression. This provides the solo performer with songs big enough to fill the room with a full band sound.
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