THE TELEGRAM

May 3. 2011/ Written by: Justin Brake

AT DAWN Review

(To read the full article: http://www.thetelegram.com/Arts---Life/Entertainment/2011-05-03/article-2474253/Epp-returns-with-songs-from-Amoria/1)

...And, as he has done with “Come To My House,” Epp reveals both his acknowledgement of humanity’s darker side — our seemingly inherent tendency to violently protect those we love — and with blistering electric guitar parts, his aptitude for bona fide rock ’n’ roll.

What makes Epp’s music appealing (“At Dawn” is no exception) is his brute honesty. He challenges conventional understandings of Christianity, isn’t interested in being categorized or pigeonholed, and accepts that some might be offended by his songs...

BEATROUTE

April, 2011 /  Written by: Sebastian Buzzalino

AT DAWN Review

(To read the full article: http://www.beatroute.ca/view_article.php?sectionID=15&articleID=4088)

 ... Epp is set to release At Dawn, an album that revolves around Amoria but is not necessarily a concept album. Instead, starting from a broad understanding of “love,” Epp traces different strains and emotions, different responsibilities, and, most interestingly, the seeming contradictions involved in loving someone (and acting to uphold that love)... 

 UPTOWN

April 21, 2011 /  Written by: Jen Zoratti

AT DAWN Review

(To read the full article: http://www.uptownmag.com/music/features/From-Amoria-with-love-120305874.html)

... Epp found himself thinking a lot about property, ownership and greed, as well as the ideas of nationalism and patriotism. He began imagining a borderless country of his own, and Amoria — an Empire of Love to which anyone can belong — was born. At Dawn serves as an introduction to the concept of Amoria, which Epp calls a "state of intention...

EXCLAIM!

Matt Epp
Safe or Free
By Nereida Fernandes

Matt Epp is the quintessential itinerant troubadour. Committed to his musical craft, he gave up his Winnipeg, MB apartment two years ago for the privilege of performing and connecting with people around the world. From his choice of lifestyle to his tousled mane it's obvious he'd rather be free than safe, but songs like "Cover Me," "They Won't Find The Bodies" or "This Old House" contradict such posturing, at least when it comes to matters of the heart. The silhouette of a hobo's careless ease grows faint with every listen, and what emerges from his poetry are fierce loyalty and romantic idealism. Safe or Free isn't the kind of album that will instantly hook you. Rather, with Epp's soothing voice, its gentle ballads will linger in your mind, coaxing you into lending your ear. This is where Matt Epp carves out his home. In return for your hospitality, he'll whisper reassuringly that, with some faith and an open heart, you too can be both safe and free. (Independent)

UPTOWN MAGAZINE

According to its liner notes, Orphan Horse was recorded live off the floor during a "frigid winter storm." Methinks the weather rubbed off a little on Matt Epp that day. While songs such as Love is a Camel and You Should Know are anything but pessimistic, one can't help but feel a little reflective listening to Orphan Horse, just as one gets when they're cooped in on a cold night. It's not so much the lyrics that cause this bittersweet reaction - and Epp's are excellent, by the way - but more so the tone. Not unlike Ryan Adams, Epp has this weighty pitch that travels right to the core, and can either make your heart feel incredibly heavy or lift you right to your feet. If you like music, you'll like this.
— Jared Story