Matt Derda & The High Watts are no strangers to the realm of heartfelt, soul-baring music. With their acoustic rendition of “Only Have Lies for You,” this talented ensemble provides an intimate glimpse into an emotional world that we hide from ourselves. We want to believe we only tell the truth to people we love, but perhaps because the feelings are too much, too close to the surface that in the end, we only have lies to share. The acoustic version of this song stripped down to its bare essence, showcases a vulnerable side of the band that is as profound as it is hauntingly beautiful.

The original version of “Only Have Lies for You” was a passionate and fervent track from the band’s “You Didn’t Know?” record. That first take was replete with emotion for days. The song soared with electric guitars, roaring percussion, and intense vocal delivery. However, this acoustic rendition takes a complete 180-degree turn, exposing the delicate, emotional core of the song. Sometimes stripping away the fast-paced guitar-focused delivery changes a song profoundly.

From the first strum of the guitar strings, the listener is plunged into a musical space where sincerity and raw emotion rule supreme. This space is not an easy place to inhabit. The questions are all too real. They hang heavy with deliberate purpose. The harmonica and banjo add dimension. The acoustic version of “Only Have Lies for You” presents Matt Derda’s voice as the central instrument, and it’s a revelation. His vocals are more compelling than ever, bearing a weighty authenticity that resonates with anyone who has ever loved and lost. He does not force the words, they simply fall and that makes the vocal even more impactful.

The lyrics of “Only Have Lies for You” have always held an enigmatic quality, and in this acoustic rendition, they come to life with a heightened sense of poignancy. The words feel like confessions whispered in the darkest corners of the heart, unraveling a tale of deception, self-discovery, and the pain of a love that couldn’t survive its own secrets. Derda’s evocative storytelling ability is magnificently displayed as he weaves his narrative into a heart-wrenching tapestry. It is heartbreaking and we cannot look away, we cannot stop listening to this revealing, beautiful song.

The additional guitar, banjo, and drum work, courtesy of The High Watts, adds further depth and a sense of melancholy to the song. Each strum and chord progression serves to underline the lyrical themes of regret and longing. The instrumental arrangement is beautifully understated, allowing Derda’s voice to take the spotlight and carry the emotional weight of the song. The acoustic version showcases the band’s ability to adapt and embrace a different musical direction while preserving the essence of the original song.

As the song progresses, the synergy between Derda’s vocal delivery and the acoustic instrumentation becomes more pronounced. The restrained drumming, subtle bass lines, and supportive vocals build a gentle yet powerful foundation for the song, while the harmonies within the band add a layer of richness to the sonic landscape. The chorus backing vocals sound almost choral in texture.

A particularly poignant moment in the song is the bridge, where Derda sings, “But you drove me to this, ‘Cause I made a second guess and your wonder, if I miss… you.” His voice quivers with the weight of remorse, and the listener is left hanging on every word. This is where the power of the acoustic rendition lies; it allows the listener to fully immerse themselves in the raw and unfiltered emotions that “Only Have Lies for You” encapsulates.

The production of this acoustic version is exceptional. The recording captures the subtleties and nuances of the performance, from the slight scrape of fingers on guitar strings to the breathiness in Derda’s vocals. The acoustic version brings out the human element of the song, making it feel like a live performance in an intimate setting.

Matt Derda & The High Watts have managed to successfully reinvent their own song with this acoustic version of “Only Have Lies for You.” The vulnerability and authenticity they bring to the forefront are palpable and stirring, and they’ve managed to expose the song’s emotional core in a way that is sure to leave a lasting impact on their audience. This rendition is a testament to their versatility as musicians and their commitment to crafting meaningful, timeless music.

In a world filled with manufactured pop and superficial love songs, “Only Have Lies for You” (Acoustic Version) stands out as a beacon of unadulterated emotion. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most powerful music is born from pain and honesty. Matt Derda & The High Watts have created a masterpiece of acoustic storytelling, a piece of music that transcends the boundaries of genre and time, reminding us that true artistry always finds a way to reach the heart.