Matt DeAngelis, a 25-year-old musician from Turnersville, New Jersey, is known for combining his personal experiences with his music. Since he was eight years old, Matt has been honing his skills as a songwriter, fueled by a desire to encourage and motivate others in a world that frequently presents difficulties. Matt combines his passion for storm chasing and his faith-based resilience to create a powerful impact that deeply connects with audiences, while also advocating for climate change and mental health awareness. His music, influenced by his long-term collaboration with his band members Billy Kennedy (guitar), Eric Bishop (bass), and Dan Pettolina (drums), showcases a mix of genuine emotion and skilled musicianship developed over almost ten years of working together.
Singer-songwriter Matt DeAngelis released his long-awaited single “Rejection” on November 8th, 2024. The introspective and emotionally powerful track delves into the common human experience of overcoming obstacles with courage. Recorded at the esteemed Gradwell House and Musically Speaking Studios, this song showcases Matt’s artistic development and his talent for combining intimate storytelling with strong musical elements. “Rejection” captures the challenges faced by a young artist in the music industry, showcasing both their struggles and accomplishments, while also delivering a universal message that resonates with anyone who has experienced rejection.
From the moment it begins, “Rejection” enchants the audience with its gentle and ethereal introduction. The music starts with a simple arrangement featuring a soft tune paired with a delicate background sound, resulting in an instant feeling of closeness. In this beginning part, Matt DeAngelis’ heartfelt voice sets the tone for the emotional story of the song. His soft yet authoritative singing captivates audiences, bringing them deep into the narrative, emphasizing that this goes beyond being merely a musical piece; it’s an exploration of the emotional territory of determination. The minimalistic start is captivating, laying the foundation for a musical journey that becomes more intricate and powerful as the song progresses.
There is no doubt that Matt’s vocal performance is one of the most standout features of “Rejection”. His voice easily switches between quiet moments of reflection and loud crescendos, capturing the emotional ups and downs of facing rejection. His delivery carries a genuineness that causes each word to have a profound impact. His tone carries subtle variations, sometimes delicate and sometimes powerful, which give life to the lyrics of the song and help listeners experience the vulnerability and determination that are the foundation of the track. Matt’s skill and profound connection to the song are demonstrated through his ability to express a variety of emotions.
From an instrumental standpoint, ‘Rejection’ successfully combines simplicity and grandeur. The composition develops slowly, with additional layers of instruments introduced as the music continues. The guitars, gracefully performed by Billy Kennedy, add a delicate touch that enhances the piano’s melodic base. At the same time, Eric Bishop on bass and Dan Pettolina on drums in the rhythm section keep a steady and unified groove that supports the track. Adding strings to the song enhances its emotional impact, swelling at important points to evoke a feeling of cinematic magnificence. The interaction among the instruments reflects the emotional evolution of the lyrics, resulting in a smooth blend of sound and feeling.
The production of the song “Rejection” is another impressive aspect. Recorded at two renowned studios, the song is enhanced by careful mixing and mastering that showcase all the intricacies of the composition. The perfect harmony between the vocals and instrumentation guarantees that every component adds to the emotional depth of the song without overshadowing each other. The production’s clarity and depth enable listeners to completely dive into the sonic world of the track, creating a truly immersive experience.
A significant feature of “Rejection” Is how it can connect with a broad range of people. Although the song is based on Matt’s personal experiences, its messages of strength, belief, and self-exploration are applicable to everyone. The track reminds us that rejection is common in life, and our response to it shapes our character. “Rejection” provides hope and empowerment for individuals who have faced self-doubt or judgment from society, urging them to seek inner strength and lean on their support networks.
In his song “Rejection,” Matt DeAngelis presents music that is just as captivating musically as it is deep in its emotional impact. The track leads listeners through a journey of vulnerability, strength, and transformation from its haunting start to its climactic end. Matt’s emotional singing, detailed musical arrangement, and sincere lyrics come together to form a timeless and powerful piece. “Rejection” marks a turning point in Matt’s career, demonstrating his development as an artist and cementing his position as a strong presence in current music. This song is more than just a representation of individual victory; it’s also a rallying cry for those who have overcome rejection and come out stronger.
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