Album Review: Are You Ever Gonna Go by Matt Landry Band
Released in 2015, Are You Ever Gonna Go is a gritty yet soulful ride through blues and rock that feels like it was brewed in the heart of Canada's raw musical landscape. With Matt Landry at the helm on lead vocals and guitar, this album brings together a tight-knit crew of musicians who know how to make every note count. Produced by Paul Milner (who also engineered and mastered the record), the sound is polished enough to shine but rough around the edges just where it needs to be.
The band’s chemistry is undeniable—Jeremy Demont lays down some seriously groovy basslines, Chris Landry keeps things punchy on drums, and Dan Cutrona adds depth with his keyboard wizardry. Oh, and let’s not forget Matt pulling double duty with haunting violin riffs sprinkled throughout. Recorded at Shell Lane Studios & A Major Sound, the production has a warm, live-off-the-floor vibe that makes you feel like you’re sitting right there in the room with them.
Now, onto the tracks. While the whole album hits hard, two songs really stuck with me: “420 Blues” and “Are You Ever Gonna Go.”
“420 Blues” kicks off the album with a swagger that’s impossible to ignore. It’s got that slow-burn groove, perfect for nodding your head or lighting up (wink). The lyrics are cheeky without being over-the-top, and Matt’s voice carries this mix of grit and vulnerability that hooks you instantly. There’s something about the way the guitar solo sneaks in—it doesn’t scream for attention; it just slides into place like an old friend showing up unannounced. This track isn’t trying too hard, which is exactly why it works so well.
Then there’s the title track, “Are You Ever Gonna Go,” which hits different. It’s more stripped-back compared to the rest of the album, letting Matt’s vocals take center stage. The emotion here feels raw, almost like he’s pleading directly to the listener. The interplay between the keys and violin gives it this bittersweet edge, like saying goodbye to someone you don’t really want to leave. By the end, you’re left wondering if the question is aimed at a lover—or maybe even himself.
Other standout covers like “Red House” and “Pride And Joy” show off the band’s ability to pay homage while still making the songs their own. But honestly, it’s those original tunes that linger longest in your mind.
Reflecting on Are You Ever Gonna Go, what strikes me most is its honesty. This isn’t some slick, overproduced project designed to climb charts—it’s real people playing real music because they love it. And hey, isn’t that what blues and rock are all about? If anything, listening to this album reminds me of late-night drives down empty highways, windows down, wind messing up your hair. Unexpectedly, it also made me crave poutine. Go figure.
Rating: 8/10
For fans of: Stevie Ray Vaughan, The Black Keys, and anyone who appreciates music with a pulse.
