Encinitas’ band, Hazmatt, has built a reputation on energy, spunk, and the kind of songs that thrive in front of a live crowd, but their latest single, “Time Stops,” reveals a different side of the band. Trading urgency for sincerity, the track is an uncomplicated love song rooted in the moments that matter most—the ones where the rest of the world fades into the background.
Built around warm, familiar melodies and an easygoing rhythm, “Time Stops” doesn’t try to overcomplicate its message. Lyrics about chasing sunsets, late-night drives, and finding stillness with the right person feel intentionally straightforward, allowing the emotion to carry the weight. The chorus—“Why don’t you give a little lovin’ to me girl”—is undeniably catchy, giving listeners something they’ll be singing long after the song ends.
What gives “Time Stops” its emotional pull, though, is the story behind its creation.
Frontman Matt Allen wrote and recorded the song alone while deployed for nine months, using nothing more than GarageBand on his phone in his rescue swimmer locker aboard a ship. Written for his wife, the song became a way to bridge the distance between them when thousands of miles—and an open ocean—stood in the way.
That context transforms lines like “The world is moving fast outside / But time stops when I’m with you” from simple romantic lyrics into something far more meaningful. They’re no longer just about escaping everyday life; they’re about holding onto the feeling of home while separated from it.
“It’s really special to me because it’s very personal,” Matt shared. “It’s probably one of the first songs that I’ve written without any other input.”
That personal investment comes through in every verse. Rather than leaning on elaborate metaphors or grand declarations, the song finds strength in everyday moments—sunsets, road trips, quiet conversations, and the comfort of knowing you’ve found your person.
It’s a reminder that the most memorable love songs don’t always need dramatic gestures; sometimes they simply capture a feeling listeners already know.
While the song began as Matt’s solo vision, it ultimately became a full-band effort. “I was able to send the guys the song from the ship so they could learn it and be ready to jump in the studio as soon as I got back,” Matt explained. Bassist Ryan Flores, drummer Darryl “D Rail” Brown, and guitarist Aaron Smith helped bring the track to life, with Flores contributing to the song’s final arrangement before the band headed into the studio.
The release also marks another exciting step for Hazmatt creatively. Jon Joseph, fresh off producing Sublime’s latest album, Until the Sun Explodes, immediately connected with “Time Stops” and wanted to work with the band, lending another level of polish to an already heartfelt track. The single is paired with artwork created by renowned Southern California artist Drew Brophy, whose unmistakable style has become synonymous with surf culture and coastal creativity. Adding to the band’s momentum, legendary Southern California radio personality Chris Cantore has also begun working with Hazmatt as they continue building toward their next chapter.
“Time Stops” showcases Hazmatt’s willingness to slow down without losing what makes them authentic. It’s heartfelt without feeling forced, nostalgic without becoming sentimental, and personal enough that listeners can easily make it their own. Sometimes the simplest songs leave the biggest impression—and for Hazmatt, this one feels like exactly that.
Fans will have the chance to hear the new single live when Hazmatt takes the stage at Belly Up in San Diego on August 15th, giving audiences an early look at the band’s next evolution both on record and onstage.
Stream “Time Stops” on Spotify:
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Disclaimer: All views presented in this album review are those of the reviewer and not necessarily those of Top Shelf Music.
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