Published: April 19, 2009 2:45 PM EST
By: Isaac Davis Jr., MBA (Juniorscave.com)
New Music Spotlight April 2009 Edition
Matt Macaulay
Matt Macaulay
Matt Macaulay is an amazing Singer/Songwriter and equally amazing guitarist who instantly will mesmerize you with his powerful soulful vocals, electrifying guitar playing skills, colorful tunes, and meaningful lyrics. The Woonsocket, RI native knows how to Rock and each of his tracks will definitely show how much the artist can rock. We caught up with Matt in this special spotlight who was more than willing to share a piece of who he is with our Webzine. Enjoy the spotlight!
Isaac: How do you sum up 2008 for Matt Macaulay?
Matt: 2008 was a productive year for me. From October-December of 2007 I started recording some of the basic tracks that are on the new album. After that, I took the next 6 months to write more and obsess about the record. In June, I went back into the studio and finished recording the first batch of songs and added a few more. From mid July to the beginning of September, I had a chance to live in Stockholm. While I was there, I edited the record and prepared it for mixing. When I got back to NYC, I started the mixing process and finished between September and December. By the end of the year, the album was ready to be mastered.
Isaac: Describe the music scene in New York City.
Matt: The New York City music scene is amazing just because there are so many people making music here. For me, the modern jazz and avant-garde scenes are the most interesting. It is really inspiring for me to hear and see so many of my favorite musicians on a regular basis. As far as my music goes, I'm still trying to figure out where it fits in.
Isaac: What do you feel was your biggest accomplishment for 2008?
Matt: Making the album.
Isaac: Elaborate a little about whom were your biggest influences in the music industry and why?
Matt: As a songwriter, my biggest influences are Elliott Smith, Ani Difranco and John Lennon. I love honest and personal songs and in my opinion these three artists have written some of the best. I'm also heavily influenced by musical innovators. For that reason, I'm really into the Claudia Quintet, Jim Black and John Zorn.
Isaac: Let's talk about what you feel you will bring to the music industry?
Matt: A sincere attempt to make the music that I hear.
Isaac: If you had an opportunity to work with one artist or group, who would it be and why?
Matt: In my music, I leave lots of room for interpretation and improvisation by whoever is in my band. For that reason, I've got tons of musicians that I would like to play with. A few that top the list are Brian Blade, Jim Black and Craig Taborn. I love hearing how different people interpret what I write.
Isaac: How would you describe your music to others?
Matt: Time Out New York called it "Jazz-Tinged Art-Pop". I think that is a decent label as far as labels go.
Isaac: What is your definition for Singer/Songwriter?
Matt: Anyone who sings and writes songs.
Isaac: What type of feedback have you received from your previous release, EP titled Matt Macaulay released in 2006?
Matt: Pretty positive overall. Some people really liked it; others seemed to like parts of it and most never heard it.
Isaac: What can fans expect from your album, Wish I Could Make You Dance, What is the inspiration behind the CD?
