Unique sound makes Unsigned Teddy Matthews ‘one to watch’

Drawing inspiration from artists such as Ben Howard, Bon Iver and Alt J, the Kidderminster singer/songwriter creates a universally accesible sound.

When asked about the music scene in his town Teddy says: “It’s not too bad really. The main place was the Boars Head in Kidderminster. However, the people that owned it and hosted live music have recently retired so it’ll be interesting to see what happens from now on.

“I’ve started playing in Worcester and also venturing into Birmingham a lot more.”

Teddy has worked with producer Gavin Monaghan at Magic Garden Studios (Editors, Ocean Colour Scene, Robert Plant) in Wolverhampton on his new four-track EP Hold On The Rhythm, which was released on June 23.

“He’s into working with up-and-coming artists and getting them out there,” he explains.

His track Love was chosen as the BBC Introducing Record of the Week at the beginning of the year, which earnt him a spot at the prestigious Hay-on-Wye literary, music and arts festival late last month.

Released last September, the single was accompanied by a music video produced by Stourbridge-based production company Mocking Bird Studio.

It follows critical acclaim for his single Worry, which received airplay on BBC Hereford & Worcester and BBC WM.

From the emotionally ravishing opening vocals in Love to his latest release Hold On The Rhythm, fans can hear the progression to a more rounded artist.

He remains distinct with modern vocals accompanied by acoustic guitar and layers of percussion instruments.

The freedom in his style comes from working alongside other musicians. Over the last six months he’s been adding more drums, bass, guitar and backing vocals to his arrangements.

Forming a band with friends from the Boars Head in Kidderminster, Teddy now fronts a five-piece act.

Asked what fans can expect from his latest EP, Teddy notes the wide range of styles on show, with the track Hold On The Rhythm highlighting a more upbeat and drum‘n’bass format that’s been going down well live, particularly during a recent date at Katie Fitzgerald’s in Stourbridge.

Busy with releases as well as both supporting and headlining gigs around the country, the rest of 2017 is set to be a busy year for Teddy.

Upcoming shows include a support slot with Unsigned favourites Quinn and appearances at Fringe Festival in Kidderminster, Jam House in Birmingham, and Firefly in Worcester.

When asked for recommendations of other local artists to look out for, Teddy says Pleasure House and The Cosmics are both ones to watch. He’s played with both of them. He also highlights previous Unsigned artist Alex Ohm.

l For a full list of tour dates and information on the EP Hold on the Rhythm visit teddymatthews.co.uk

l You can also find Teddy on the following:

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teddymatthewsmusic, Twitter https://twitter.com/teddymatthewsuk

l What to appear on this page? Email daniel.earl@expressandstar