Indie pop artist Matt Maltese’s fourth studio album, Driving Just To Drive, explores the beauty of the insignificant moments of life. 

In Maltese’s past albums, such as Krystal (2019) and Good Morning It’s Now Tomorrow (2021), he took a more sadistic approach and primarily focused on the heartbreak, loss, and existentialism of life. 

However, in Driving Just To Drive, gratitude, reflection, and hopefulness are the primary themes. Maltese’s appreciation for life is prominent in the album’s sixth track, “Widows.” In “Widows,” Maltese acknowledges the pitfalls of modern society, such as the deterioration of the environment, yet he emphasizes the beauty of the small moments in life. 

Furthermore, in the tracks “Florence” and “Museum,” Maltese reminisces on his cowardice throughout life. Maltese explains that his fear of taking a risk caused him to become a spectator of his life. Therefore, he did not fully appreciate the beauty of the experiences life presents. 

Additionally, Maltese reflects on his submission to other people throughout his life in the album’s seventh track, “Coward,” featuring Biig Piig. Through its lyrics, “Coward” demonstrates how love can drive an individual to become dependent on their partner and grow insecure. 

Similar to his first studio album, Bad Contestant (2018), the album includes upbeat guitar and piano features. However, in Bad Contestant, as the title suggests, Maltese focuses on his tendency to self-sabotage, whereas in Driving Just To Drive, Maltese acknowledges his past faults but offers a new, optimistic outlook on life. 

Although some of the album’s lyrics and melodies are redundant, all in all, Driving Just To Drive encapsulates the new beginnings and optimism the spring season brings.