Rising star River Matthews is a talented singer/songwriter and fully qualified music therapist, who is seeing his career go from strength to strength.
Ahead of the release of his debut album ‘Imogen‘ on February 16, we spoke to the multi talented musician about what we can expect from his new music, his musical inspirations, future plans and much, much more.
Growing up who/what inspired your love of music?
I think it was probably my parents who set it off… the Beach Boys would always be in the car on camping trips to the coast. And I remember my dad getting me Pass the Dutchie by Musical Youth on single when I was really young…! Still love that song!
Have you always known you wanted to pursue music as a career?
I always loved music but was just always there, somewhere in the background. I remember telling my mum when I was really young that I wanted to be a designer when I grew up, and I’d describe how all the pens and paper would be laid out on the desk. Pretty cool kid.
Who would be your dream collaboration?
Right now this second it would have to be Paul Simon… I love his songwriting… proper craftsman. And he’s about to do his last ever tour so I gotta get in there quick.
How excited are you to be releasing your debut album ‘Imogen’?
It’s pretty surreal to be honest. I mean it’s just amazing. When I think that I first started thinking about it like 15 years or so ago. I haven’t taken it in yet I don’t think. But yeah, pretty fookin’ excited.
What do you hope listeners take from the record?
I just hope they like it. And start tattooing lyrics on each other.
How would you describe the LP’s sound, overall?
I think the sound is a bunch of old and new stuff, maybe more old than new. Luke Potashnick produced it… so a lot of the sound comes from that massively talented young man.
What inspired the tracks on the album?
A large portion of the album was taken from events over the last couple of years, with a couple of exceptions. Pretty much though the album is inspired by my family and friends, and one relationship in particular, which I’m not writing about anymore :P
Are you planning on touring your new music?
I’m just about to go on a tour with a band called Good Old War across the US, and I’m there when the album comes out. But all this year I’ll be playing it… back at the end of March for a string of UK shows and festivals.
What can fans expect from you in 2018?
Along with the album I’ll be playing some cool festivals and shows this year, with more announcements to come, so watch this space.
What are your long term career goals?
I just wanna get better at songwriting, and work with more amazing people.
Make sure you follow River Matthews on Twitter @RiverMatthews to keep up to date with all his latest music and tour news!
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