On Deerheart’s latest release Everything Matters, solo artist Tom Ciorciari has written a diverse and rich album that explores a myriad of different genres, while keeping the record’s foundation of pop and rock present in every song. While every musician has a band or time period that inspires their musical beginnings, for Ciorciari, this period began in 1964 with the British Invasion. Heavily inspired by the Beatles, many of Tom’s original tracks on the album have an undercurrent of that influence. On Everything Matters, we hear this older flavor quite often, as Ciorciari’s simple but catchy songs will pique nearly anyone’s interest.
Opening tune “Someone Will Find You” features a bright guitar lick that showcases Tom’s interest in modern pop, while also introducing his audience to a genre shifting album. The record’s second track, “Stay True” has an opening riff that has a 60’s vibe sounding like it came from the Fab Four vault, and that is where Ciorciari’s Beatles influence shines through. With his light and carefree vocals that accompany it, it’s a song that will stay in your head for a long time.
“Suzanne” is a song that feels heavily inspired by punk rock act The Ramones, as Ciorciari plays a dirty guitar riff that is punchy and sharp. Playing with purpose and passion, “Suzanne” introduces us to another side of Tom’s musical identity that by this point is incredibly colorful. Next, Deerheart dives into hip hop and introduces a dash of techno with the album’s title track, which features guest vocals from Jessica Upham. While the tune veers more on the pop side of things, the hip hop inspired groove gives “Everything Matters” an extra hint of spice while nodding to Tom and his buzzing creativity which never falters throughout the release.
Everything Matters demonstrates Ciorciari’s ear for music which is displayed wonderfully on his latest solo record. With rock tunes, ballads, and songs filled with passion and musical experimentation, Ciorciari’s latest release has something for everyone. After listening we hope that Tom never puts down his guitar, as his songwriting is too good to be silenced.
