Matt Stell captures the instant connection of what seems like love at first sight in “Better Than That.” And in a new live-performance video premiering on Sounds Like Nashville today (January 29), country hit maker brings it to life — with a twist.
Showcasing the smooth grooving title track to his recent EP, Stell and his two-piece band tap into a deep well of romantic energy for the passionate midtempo. Highlighting the sensual side of Stell’s sturdy vocal, with clean guitar and subdued drums behind him, the rising talent sings of the unconscious understanding he feels for a girl across the bar, currently fending off advances from a guy who just doesn’t get it. With vivid lyrics and a soulful sway, the track feels perfect for close dancing under neon lights — but there’s a catch.
It turns out there’s a reason Stell knows what this particular girl is looking for, and already missed his shot. “Better Than That” appears on Stell’s latest EP set of the same name, and he says it’s a good example of where he hopes to take his music next.
“Out of all the songs we put out on the EP, I think ‘Better Than That’ is the best representation what I’m trying to do musically,” he tells SLN. “I think it rocks pretty hard and also has a country lyric twist. I love playing it live and I do every chance I get.”
“You ain’t a shot of Jäger from a stranger at a dive bar / His hands all on your body on the dance floor / Tryna first kiss you up against the wall / I know you better than that,” goes the chorus hook.
Matt Stell broke out in 2019 with faithful romance of his Platinum certified Number One debut, “Prayed for You,” and followed up with Gold chart topper, “Everywhere But On.” His Better Than That EP arrived in October of last year, and the newcomer will be featured in this year’s New Faces of Country Music class at the 2021 Country Radio Seminar.