We were lucky enough to catch up with MATTHEW AND THE ARROGANT SEA following the superb release of ‘A Little Off’. Read the full interview below!

How did you get into the music industry?

Initially, when MATAS was born, this started as a solo project. Just me and my uke writing songs about Pancakes on Mars. It evolved into a trio with my brother and nephew, where we fervently recorded records in our bedrooms. Twenty-one years later, we still feel a fervency to create something just a little bit special.

Who influenced your brilliant latest release, ‘A Little Off’?

I was very influenced by the early sounds of Laurel Canyon. I wanted this song to be very sincere and almost bare-bones—for most of the track, eventually building into this beautiful sonic release.

‘A Little Off’ is a great alternative rock release; what draws you to the genre?

Honestly… I try my very hardest when writing not to have a genre in mind. I want my thought process and the song to be as free and genuine as possible. If that means it lands into new genres for us, like Alt Rock, I am here for it.

You’re based in Denton; what’s the live music scene like there?

I have always romanticized our music community. I will always believe and feel that there is just something in the water here. Beautiful energy unfurls out of every doorway. It really is a magical little town that I am honoured to call home.

Who would you most like to collaborate with?

Would really love to collaborate with David Bazan on a record sometime. He’s one of my biggest heroes/influences, and he’s the sweetest soul you’ll ever meet.

What’s your dream venue to play?

I would love to perform at The Greek Theater in L.A.. Mark my words, we will.

Other than music, what are you passionate about?

I love my Wife and family, my cat-son Samson, and I have a budding business in the filmmaking industry called The One Whole Glorious Donut Co. Our first production and my directorial debut—Is a horror film called “Gideons Bible” will be out next year.

What changes would you like to see in the music business?

Fair pay for performers is a massive societal change in how we view artists/musicians. It’s high time we stopped being noisy in the background and demanded our right to be heard, paid fairly and respected for our efforts.

How do you feel about how the internet plays a role in today’s music business?

The internet is a wildly magical place that is full of twists and turns. I kinda see the internet now the same way I would a library. I have discovered so much music because of it, and I am grateful for the doors it continues to open in my musical life.

What would it be if you could choose one thing for fans to take away from your music?

That you are loved and accepted for you who you are. I can’t tell you how many times a fan’s message or e-mail has both given me life and filled my eyes with tears. So many of my fans open up to me because of our music and our sincerity. I have heard so many wonderful stories and so many sad ones. 

But if I could have one wish, it would be that they all know how meaningful and special they are to me and the entire band. When I say we love you back, I mean it with all my heart. Thank you for over 20 years of love and support.

What is your favourite song to play live?

It varies from tour to tour, but at this current moment, “Targets” and “Traveling Show” are at the top for me.

Have you started working on your next release?

Shhhh. It’s a secret! But let’s just say you’ll see two releases from MATAS this year….and one next. Love y’all.

FVMusicBlog July 2023

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