Matthew Byrne

Matthew Byrne (NL)

Matthew Byrne was born into a family of Newfoundland music-makers. Their lineage continues to thrive in his repertoire, as he weaves great stories with beautiful melodies, reminding listeners how satisfying traditional songs can be when stripped down to these basic elements. His live performance offers tasteful and honest interpretations of folk songs delivered with polished guitar-work and powerful vocals.

Since bursting onto the trad scene in 2010 with his debut recording, Ballads, Byrne has swiftly earned his place as one of Canada’s most authentic and vital traditional voices. In that time, his music has traveled well beyond the rugged shores of his homeland. His role as singer and song-finder in the Dardanelles has brought him to many major international stages including Celtic Connections in Glasgow, UK and the Woodford Folk Festival in Queensland, Australia. He has won Traditional Album of the Year at the Canadian Folk Music Awards in 2015 and, most recently, was nominated for the CFMA’s Traditional Album of the Year.

On Horizon Lines, Byrne’s latest collection of traditional material, released in 2017, he explores a unique repertoire of songs from both sides of the Atlantic. A guest appearance by his father, Joe Byrne, makes for a particularly special moment on this recording. Another highlight is an original ballad by Matthew called “Adelaide,” penned after discovering a fascinating family connection to a beautiful love story. His ever-evolving creative partnership with producer Billy Sutton shines throughout Horizon Lines with thoughtful interpretations of traditional songs anchored by his polished guitar-work and commanding voice. Their treatment of these songs shows a mutual sense of when to build (with accompaniment from Newfoundland’s finest players) and when to let a story and its melody stand alone.

www.matthewbyrne.net

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