7/10

When he first emerged with his breakthrough debut album 'Bad Contestant' in 2018, Matt Maltese was greeted as one of the more lovelorn artists coming to fruition that year. As a spellbinding indie-rock crooner, he quickly found his niche within the scene, leading to a flurry of releases that would continue his vibrant legacy at almost every turn. And after the rousing reception for his 2021 LP 'Good Morning It's Now Tomorrow', he now returns to deliver his fourth full-length 'Driving Just To Drive', a record that continues that warm and vibrant dynamic he has cultivated for himself.

While Matt Maltese has never been one to step out of his comfort zone to date 'Driving Just To Drive' still manages to find and develop more of that traditional elegance he first broke through with. Keeping the production largely sparse with a dashing of heartfelt melodies laced throughout, his latest outing still him return with that warm and progressive direction once again.

It may not be the biggest jump forward for him sonically, but still makes for an incredibly rich and passionate listen throughout. Marking his fourth studio album in just five years, he is currently riding an extremely prolific spell that still hasn't faltered often. A strong return from an artist that always seeks to impress and captivate.