Name: Matthew Schmalz
Hometown: West Des Moines, IA
Year: Sophomore
Fields(s) of Study: B.S. Geography, Certificate in GIS
SCOPE Position: General Committee (Content)
My playlist is essentially me attempting to condense every style of music I love into one (somewhat) concise musical journey. It starts off with the most mellow and relaxing tracks and slowly becomes more intense and abrasive as it takes you through a collection of my favorite songs from my favorite genres. It comprises songs that I’ve been introduced to through my family, friends, and travels, along with my own discoveries. Many of these songs are ones I’ve found myself returning to repeatedly, whether it be over the years or more recently.
There are a few songs I would like to highlight. The first of which being the wonderful nearly 19-minute Isaac Hayes cover of “By The Time I Get to Phoenix”. A lovely spoken word story that rises into an emotional soul ballad, filled with beautiful instrumentation. Another is “Tripping Out” by Curtis Mayfield. A song that showcases what Mayfield does best: a funky, addictive listen with its groovy guitar line that is enhanced by an incredible bass performance and a wealth of accompaniment. Lastly, I would like to talk about “Fling” by Jane Remover. A dense shoegaze track infused with electronic elements that is just sublime.
I had a great time putting this playlist together, and I hope you enjoy it and are able to discover something that you connect with!
Three Favorite Albums:
Veteran by JPEGMAFIA
MINT JAMS(Live) by CASIOPEA
Discovery by Daft Punk
Favorite Concert Experience:
I would have to choose seeing JPEGMAFIA at the Val Air Ballroom in West Des Moines, Iowa. As one of my favorite artists, I had always wished to see him live someday. When I found out he was performing in my hometown, I was quite surprised and bought tickets immediately. I went with my friends and my brother, who was the one who introduced me to JPEGMAFIA years earlier, and we got right up front. After an extended wait, he finally came on stage. The crowd was rowdy, and the atmosphere was electric. The experience of singing along with all these songs I have been listening to for years was exhilarating. It was a once in a lifetime experience, and I can’t wait for the next opportunity to see him live again.
Hobbies / Interests / Fun Facts / Campus Involvement:
I have been a big skier since I was young, and more recently I have enjoyed cycling. Photography is another hobby I am fond of, and I also love building things with my hands, whether it be a computer, deck, or keyboard. Apart from SCOPE, I am also involved in KRUI, where I co-host a show, and next semester I am excited to have my own. A fun fact: I have a twin brother (fraternal), who unfortunately goes to Iowa State. My favorite flag is probably that of Seychelles, and my dream car is a 1993 Geo Metro LSi 2-door hatch in Green Metallic.