Matt DeAngelis’s music has always been a soulful, introspective experience, but with his latest single, “Rejection,” he elevates that trademark depth into a powerful anthem of resilience. For those familiar with DeAngelis’s work, his artistic journey is one of growth and transformation, where every track reveals more layers of his emotional landscape. With “Rejection,” he once again proves why he belongs in the same breath as classic rock legends like Elton John, Billy Joel, and David Bowie, while simultaneously carving out his space in the modern music scene.
From the first notes, “Rejection” grabs hold of you. Its introduction of grand piano chords; rich, layered, and impossibly full of emotion sets an atmosphere. It’s like stepping into a cavernous room where every sound rings with introspection, and you feel compelled to sit and listen. Matt’s piano is the song’s heartbeat, pulsing with weighty intent as the rhythm section softly ushers in the deeper layers of the track. It demands your attention, not through overwhelming force but by creating a personal and expansive atmosphere.
As the piano swells, Matt’s voice enters, calm and assured, yet filled with an emotional weight that can only come from personal experience. The opening lines, “For years it’s been the way. Fight ‘til you break free. Sink until you swim. Fake it ‘til you make it,” set the stage for the entire song, framing a narrative of struggle and perseverance. There’s a quiet power in these words, a raw honesty that makes you feel like you are hearing Matt DeAngelis’s innermost thoughts. These lyrics reflect the universal human experience of battling adversity with a vulnerable and determined delivery.
Vocally, Matt’s performance in “Rejection” is mesmerizing. His voice has a gritty, emotional quality that evokes strength and fragility, capturing the internal conflict of trying to break free from the weight of rejection. There’s an unspoken vulnerability in his delivery, but a quiet, simmering defiance. As he transitions from the thoughtful lines of the verses into the anthem-like chorus; “But rejection is my middle name,” he belts out with the conviction of someone who’s not only accepting rejection but using it as fuel for his victory. The emotional intensity in his voice is palpable, drawing us into the heart of his battle. As the song reaches its triumphant climax, where Matt sings “Winner, winner is my middle name”, I couldn’t help but feel the rush of victory alongside him.
Musically, the production and instrumentation in “Rejection” are just as compelling as Matt’s vocals. The track benefits from a meticulous blend of classic rock sensibilities and progressive flourishes, reminiscent of Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin, but still distinctly Matt’s own. The piano, which anchors the song, is accompanied by lush layers of guitar and bass that ebb and flow with the rhythm, never overshadowing the vocal performance but enhancing the emotion. The steady drums provide a solid foundation, allowing Matt’s powerful performance to shine without feeling rushed. There’s a richness in the arrangement that mirrors the depth of the song’s theme, and the production ensures that every element of the track is allowed to breathe and resonate.
Once again, Matt DeAngelis delivers a deeply resonating track that resonates deeply. His blend of classic rock influences, masterful piano work, and emotionally charged vocals make “Rejection” a standout release. More than just a song, it’s a transformative experience; one that speaks to anyone who has ever faced adversity and emerged stronger on the other side. Matt’s ability to intertwine personal reflection with universal themes sets him apart, making “Rejection” a powerful reminder that even in rejection, there’s always room for growth, triumph, and reinvention.
With this release, Matt DeAngelis continues to ground his place among the greats. His artistry is marked by the timeless and the contemporary, bridging generations with a soulful, authentic, and undeniably impactful sound. If you haven’t already, now’s the time to discover what makes Matt DeAngelis’s music so special. “Rejection” is just the latest chapter in a story that continues in breathtaking ways.
Listen to “Rejection” by Matt DeAngelis on Spotify or SoundCloud, and watch the video with the above link.
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