Tennessee is home to numerous iconic artists and bands that have inspired countless musicians both in the US and around the world. I truly believe that Mahto & The Loose Balloons will soon emerge as a well-known name in the industry. Their album, “Knock Knock It’s The Loose Balloons,” is poised to achieve significant recognition shortly. Let me explain why below.
Mahto & The Loose Balloons features the talented Mahto Addison-Browder, who serves as the mastermind and primary songwriter for the project. Joining him are Will Diebold on bass, Travis F. Welch on additional guitar, organ, and mandolin, along with Sam Love and Niko Graham on drums. This 12-track album presents a remarkable array of musical styles, showcasing the exceptional skills of the musicians involved. You can detect influences from art rock, funk, Latin, acoustic, folk, and even punk! With such an impressive variety and a meticulously crafted mix, it is sure to captivate any listener without a doubt.
Those who regularly read my writings are aware that I tend to refrain from discussing each track individually in my album reviews, as I wish to avoid swaying the opinions of readers or listeners while they explore it. However, it’s clear to me that the expertise of the musicians shines through, showcasing genuine diversity in every track. The expressive vocals, melodic riffs, and precise rhythms are all enhanced by the distinctive harmony among the band members.
While the album draws inspiration from legendary artists like Tom Waits and Neil Young, evoking nostalgia for that golden era, I appreciate how it is delivered with a distinctly modern flair. Many contemporary acts often struggle to achieve such a seamless blend.
Matho revealed that the narrative of the album draws from a challenging personal experience. I can relate to this; the difficult periods I’ve faced have sparked inspiration and enhanced my motivation to generate new ideas at work for financial gain. “I was trying to buy my house at the time. The banks were giving me a hard time and forcing me to navigate through numerous obstacles. This was largely because I’m not wealthy, and the house I was already living in isn’t a conventional one. It led me to reflect on other people’s homes and the stories that unfold within them. The stress and anxiety were overwhelming, so this became my creative outlet. Fun fact: The title ‘Knock Knock It’s The Loose Balloons’ pays tribute to ‘Meet The Beatles,’” explained Mahto Addison-Browder.
The album’s seamless blend of genres demonstrates not only the band’s versatility but also their commitment to pushing musical boundaries. Each track invites the audience to embark on a narrative journey, unraveling stories of resilience, community, and the search for belonging. Mahto & The Loose Balloons have crafted an album that is both timeless and refreshingly contemporary, inviting listeners to connect deeply with the music and the stories interwoven within. Whether you’re a long-time fan of their influences or new to their sound, this album promises an enriching auditory adventure that leaves a lasting impression.
