Music

Maybe My Love Was Just Right, the new record from Portland, OR musician Matthew Heller, feels like freedom. Like the freedom that comes from letting go; of toxic relationships, of anger, of self-imposed limitations. The record prickles with palpable energy, oscillating between agitation and exhilaration. Daring to seek freedom, from the myriad demons that plague humanity, is terrifyingly thrilling. A sudden lightening of the soul can be downright giddy. The dirty pop-rock of this record, fueled by propulsive rhythm and driving basslines, ignited by tight chords and tighter melodies, feels like that.