Band members include:
Brian McSweeney(Guitars,Vocals,LOTs o' lOviN')
Matt Sumpter(Drums,Percussion,Loose Lips)
Others(too many to count...1,2,3,...we love you all!!)
There’s a notion floating around the music industry these days that once you get ‘dropped’ from a record label, you’re done for in terms of having a career in music. Pack your bags, back to the day job. Chicago band Matthew has had enough with the notion and, leaving the chip off their shoulder, they’re doing something about it.
The quartet formed just before 2000 and was picked up by Rykodisc within the next year, a label respected in the world music and jazz genres yet silent on the rock radar. With extensive touring both in the US and across the Atlantic, their 2002 LP Everybody Down quickly gained momentum with the foreign press and was hailed in the UK. Unfortunately, taking a risk without knowing how to support a rock act, Rykodisc dropped Matthew mid-campaign during their second tour at home in the States. And they did it in true industry style: with a single phone call.
Like any newly signed artist would react, Brian McSweeney and company were hit hard. They initially bought the idea that doors were closing fast, and for a while it wasn’t pretty. The digital market, blogoshpere, and podcasts were in their infant stages compared to where they are now, so for a newly-unsigned band to then maintain the same buzz as one with major label support was a total crapshoot. Regardless, there’s absolutely no reason for music to simply go away and die somewhere quietly, alone and unheard.
Nearly five years have since passed, and Matthew have laid their cards back out on the table with their new self-release Army of the Rabbit and Mouse, a dramatic departure from their previous record. Twelve songs with pure, honest lyrics dealing with introspective issues of trust, relationships, and faith- written, recorded, and produced by the band over the past two years. While the Matthew elements of McSweeney’s seemingly endless vocal range, lush guitars romanced on Fender reverb, and precision-tight rhythm section punches have remained intact, they’ve removed the polished glean in the studio only to offer something more organic and closer to heart. The band’s core of McSweeney and drummer Matt Sumpter have pulled through, and they’ve recruited bassist Adrian Walther (All Star United) and guitarist Danny Nicoletto (The Audible Campaign) along the way. The band has begun where they left off- on the road where they belong. They’re still one of the best live acts out there.
Industry or not, Matthew’s music can be heard and felt once again. With clearer heads and lessons learned, they believe it’s time to go out and test the waters. My vote: they go in head first.
McGreetings from Scotland, Cheers for being our friend on myspace , Please Keep in touch as we value your friendship and support very much! All the very best to you, from McDave and the boys of Pegasus in Bonnie Scotland. ROCK ON! and have a great week.
I miss the days when I thought I could look forward to a new album. I still listen to the little demo y'all put out a while back. I'd love some more. I know there are tracks that I haven't heard yet - I need them.
Brian Mc, Been a fan since the 7DJ days. Saw you live way back when 7DJ played with ASU and Third Day at a High School in NJ. That was my first taste of your music and have been a fan ever since. Have a Great New Year!
hey, thank you for the add! :) Just found out about you like a week ago, but i realy like your music! Are you going to holland sometime ? =D keep up the good work! xx
Brian man, how's life? Dying for some new music here. Hope everything is going ok for you. I was really stoked about the demo cd you sent me, your sound is really unique and your songwriting is amazing. I want to hear more. Would love to see you on the left coast sometime, too.
When's the next show in Chicago? Hopefully soon, because I need some more Matthew in my life. Get workin' on that album! I promise I won't steal it online.
In all sincerity, when is that "new self-release Army of the Rabbit and Mouse" gonna be released? Shit, I'd be happy with just one show this summer. Just one, please, just one.
