Glossy tiles will reflect more light, which will probably help balance the darkness of the cabinets. The long cream tile in the middle seems to go nicely with the countertop.

thanks, the room does have lots of natural light, but the whole purpose of the reno was to brighten up the kitchen. I had black countertop previously.

For brightening, I'd definitely go with a shiny whiter/cooler leaning tile. Also, if you change your lightbulbs from soft white (warmer) to a daylight (cooler) light, it can brighten it too. Try the tile samples in both light and see what you think.

My choice would be whichever one blends best with the light cream in the granite.

A shiny creamy subway would work perfectly with your new kitchen countertops.

just confirming that the shiny works well with the leathers finish on the counters?

also regarding the lighting, can the bigger cabinet lights be changed or are you referring to the regular lighting?
what can I use for above cabinet lighting? should all the lighting in the room knee the same tone?

You can do either shiny or matte, just do as mentioned by Chloebud, a cream color that blends in with the light cream in the granite.