Matt DeAngelis - I'm Just The Keyboard Player
Pop, Rock
New Jersey, U.S.
Overall Impression: From the very first note of “I’m Just The Keyboard Player,” Matt DeAngelis ushers us through a sonic time machine, landing squarely in the golden age of 1970s pop rock — a time when melody was king and the singer-songwriter reigned supreme. This track is a glowing love letter to that era, drenched in warm, analog emotion and lifted by sweeping melodies that seem to wrap around the listener like a familiar, worn-in denim jacket. The song’s rich instrumentation — complete with tender piano progressions, harmonically rich guitars, and a rhythm section that breathes rather than pounds — creates an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and wholly alive. Lyrically, “I’m Just The Keyboard Player” walks the tightrope between wry self-awareness and quiet vulnerability. There’s something poetic in its simplicity — the narrator isn’t a star, isn’t the face on the posters, but he’s the soul behind the sound. And in that, Matt DeAngelis captures something universal: the desire to be seen, to be valued, even if it’s from the shadows just off-stage.
Strongest Point(s): The performances are brilliant. The vocals strike that rare balance between conversational and expressive, drawing the listener in without ever straining for attention. The piano work is subtle but emotive — never flashy, but always a strong harmonic foundation. And then there’s the guitar that weaves together countermelodies that underscore and uplift the narrative. What perhaps truly sets this track apart is its arrangement — a sterling example of how musical elements can breathe together organically. There’s a tangible sense of interplay here: melodies intertwine, dynamic swells give the music an ebb and flow that mirrors the emotional arc of the lyrics, and the use of harmonic and rhythmic contrast keeps the listener engaged from start to finish. Each section is layered with just the right amount of instrumentation to carry its emotional weight without tipping into excess. The production is also a highlight and allows for an enveloping sonic experience — every element seems to listen and respond to the others. Background textures gently rise and fall behind the spotlighted vocals, the bass and drums maintain an understated groove that locks everything together, and the mix boasts an undeniably rich and warm sound that ensures the distinct timbral qualities of each instrument is allowed to be showcased.
Target Audience Appeal: "I'm Just The Keyboard Player" is a delightful blast to the past and I can see it strongly resonating with lovers of classic pop-rock.
Artist target suggestions: America, Paul McCartney, Electric Light Orchestra, Wings, Peter Frampton, Christopher Cross, Queen, George Harrison, 10cc, David Bowie, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Fleetwood Mac
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About the Reviewer:
Andre Avanessian is a freelance session guitarist, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar as well as teaching it, helping students learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and become proficient in home recording.