Matt Zambon – Immi (2022)
One of the best aspects of being a music reviewer is discovering new talent from across the globe. I have covered musicians from the UK, Madagascar, Korea and many other countries, but I always feel a special something when discovering South African artists. Perhaps it is a patriotic thing or that SA has such a diverse culture to mush into a song, but I adore that my home country has such talent to offer; as is the case with Matt Zambon.
Born and raised in Johannesburg, but now based in Australia, the South African indie-pop artist can soothe any beast with his charming sound. Embracing a passion for music and taking inspiration from human experiences, Zambon’s songs are intimate, personal and show a deep vulnerability. The latest addition to his critically acclaimed discography is the single ‘Immi’.
The Zulu term “immi” can be translated to “I’m a citizen” (at least via Google Translate), which is entirely apt considering the theme and tone of Zambon’s new tune. When speaking about ‘Immi’, Zambon explains that “…a lot of who I am today has been shaped by the values and beliefs of a society to which I still don’t fully belong. It’s something we see all over the globe; we celebrate our global citizenship but are still afraid to welcome our neighbours with open arms”. ‘Immi’ touches on the profound theme of being an immigrant and the connected emotional consequences, but the poignancy is juxtaposed by a heart-warming melody.
Soothing, smooth and gentle, there is a sophisticated flow in the guitar-driven track. Lying somewhere between Hozier and George Ezra, Matt Zambon’s dulcet tones take us on a soul-stirring sonic journey. Yet, while there is a calming tenderness in the melody, ‘Immi’ captures a confusing vulnerability felt by people making a life for themselves in a new country. As I mentioned, Zambon writes from experience and leaving your native country for distant shores is as emotional as they come. The theme song for any migrant feeling a tug to return home, Matt Zambon’s ‘Immi’ is sincere, introspective and insightful.
For more from Matt Zambon check out his official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
