Jonah Matranga – There’s A Lot In Here

A Lot of Talent in Here

Jonah Matranga no longer wants to be entirely anonymous. After five years under the moniker onelinedrawing, Matranga has released the solo CD/DVD There’s A Lot In Here under his own name. The disc documents Jonah’s ultimate DIY tour with his trusty guitar and R2-D2 drum machine, playing in friend’s houses and the occasional actual venue.In an age of computer mixed music and faceless fans, Jonah Matranga’s stripped down sound gives hope to the singer-songwriter. Such earnest lyrics and dedication to fans (which is greatly returned) likens Jonah to an older Chris Carrabba. “Livin’ Small” features Matranga performing live in a living room, right in front of an Audrey Hepburn picture on the wall. Despite people coming and going, plus a cell phone ring interrupting, Jonah could very well be putting on a sold out show at Madison Square Garden. Each track displays not only Jonah Matranga’s talent, but gives a sense of his connection with his audience. He will even stop mid-song to give his thoughts on topics from the song writing process to bumper sticker politics. On “Crush on Everyone,” Jonah manages the difficult task of singing acapella while joking with the crowd in between verses. Matranga’s songs cover all spectrums of emotion: “Hostage” paints the haunting picture of a relationship gone wrong as a criminal situation, while the use of R2-D2 sounds in “Smile” are enough on their own to make anyone happy.

Now Jonah Matranga’s name has been spread, and new fans are converted on a daily basis. Whether his next tour stop is abroad or in a basement, everyone present is sure to be captivated by a unique and personal show.