Matthew, how did the leap from Red Electrick to becoming a solo artist come about?
There are many stories circulating out there about this! Some say that I left because I wanted to go solo. Others say it was a mutual decision we took due to "differences in artistic direction". I think my favourite one is that I left because I couldn't handle the rock'n'roll lifestyle and preferred family life.
The situation in which I found myself in December left me with no choice but to leave the band. I think I was at the lowest point in my life. I didn't even want to hear music, let alone make it! I had no idea where to go and what to do from there.
However, when I made it public on Facebook that I would no longer be part of the band, the feedback from people was incredible! Everyone wanted me to continue performing and writing music.
How would you describe the 'new you' as opposed to the Red Electrick frontman?
I think I am more myself now. I joke more on stage, I smile more. The Red Electrick act was more dramatic, theatrical and all planned out. Now, I just enjoy performing, jumping about and being myself on stage. It's about making people smile and relating to human nature...after all, I'm just a guy who started out air-guitaring and air-drumming in my bedroom to Iron Maiden at the tender age of 15!
What does a typical day look like for you right now?
Breakfast, emails, update my calendar and reply to clients, which normally takes until 10am. That's when I start doing the production work for the clients I'll be working for: other musicians, film-makers, gig clients, etc., etc. At 2pm I take a break to have something to eat with my girlfriend and watch a few episodes from a series. Evenings are for errands, meetings and other production work. I always like ending my day with a long song-writing session that usually takes place between midnight and 2am. This is my meditation time. I believe that practice makes perfect in everything. Football players have to train; song-writers are no different!
Have there been any changes in your musical inspiration, style or influences in this new chapter of your life?
The music I write usually depends on what I'm listening to at that moment. Also, being a producer and song-writer, I always keep up to date with the latest sounds, instruments, techniques, etc. So in reality, I think my process is still the same.
What are you currently working on and what can your fans look forward to in the near future?
Locally, at the moment I'm producing The Busker's upcoming album and I'm experimenting on three tracks with the immense vocal capability of Raquela DG. I am also working with American-based record label IndieWaveEntertainment on the distribution of my new tracks on their online platforms. This is quite humbling, as they have an online platform with over 100 million viewers.
With regard to the future, there are plans for an EP or album next year with the new band. We had the pleasure of jamming a little during our Beerfestival rehearsals and I absolutely loved what was happening. And also - everyone was smiling and that's usually good!