Matt Andersen has been enthralling audiences with his one of a kind performance in North America, Europe and Australia for years. In October 2015, the award winning artist once again de-camped from his New Brunswick, Canada home to record his new album Honest Man. In support of this latest album Matt will be playing shows around Australia in November.
Tomatrax caught up with Matt Anderson to ask a few questions.
You'll be touring Australia next month, what can fans expect from your show?
I'll be coming over solo on this run, so it will just be me and my guitar on stage. I like to keep my shows pretty relaxed. The more fun and energy I get from the crowd, the more I give. That's what makes for the best nights.
What was the inspiration behind the name The Bona Fide for your band?
The name came from a brainstorming session with the guys in my band. Bona Fide is the one that stuck out.
What made you pick 'Honest Man' as the title track to your latest album?
That song kind of became the centre peice of the album. It was one of the first tunes that was ready for the album. A fun song to play as well.
What was it like working with Commissioner Gordon when making your album?
Gordon was great to work with. He brought a lot of experience and different influences to the album. He definitely brought out things in me that I wouldn't have on my own. He's mastered giving an artist a fresh sound while still staying true to what they do.
You received a lot of critical acclaim for your work, does that make you feel any pressure going forward?
Nope, no more than I put on myself. I always strive to do better and move forward.
Your bio says you let the converted audiences and Andersen devotees spread your reputation through word of mouth. Is it important to take this approach?
For an artist who doesn't receive a lot of radio and TV play, word of mouth is the best way to get the attention of new listeners.
When writing what comes first, the words or the music?
No set rule for that. A lyric can inspire a groove and vice versa. I try to be open to both at all times.
Do you ever listen to your own music?
Not very often. I play it so often that I'm ready for something else when I get time to just listen.
What music do you listen to?
I find myself listening to satellite radio quite often. Usually the 60s and 70s stations. Lots of gems in there.
What do you have planned after your upcoming tour?
A bit of time off then hitting the road again in the new year. Most likely I'll be going into the studio next fall.
Fri 18 - Sun 20 Nov
Mullum Music Festival
http://www.mullummusicfestival.com
Sat 26 - Sun 27 Nov
Queenscliff Music Festival
http://www.qmf.net.au