Matt WoodsIn 2013, Matt woods self-released his debut EP 'Wash Me Clean' to rave reviews.
Now he's back stronger than ever after honing his craft, working with new writers and producers including James Earp (Bipolar Sunshine) and Jake Gosling (Ed Sheeran), developing a new sound and becoming a part of Sticky Management.
Stepping back into the spotlight, his forthcoming EP 'Give Yourself Away' is expected to drop on July 14 - the title track now available to listen to on SoundCloud.
In this exclusive interview, we get to talk to Matt about his life in the music industry, the efforts that have gone into his new material and much more.
How best would you describe yourself as an artist?
At the heart of it I'm a singer-songwriter. My music has strong soul and gospel influences. Lyrics are all-important.
When did you decide that this was a career you'd like to pursue?
Quite late on as it goes! It was only a couple of years ago. I went to Uni and did all that Uni stuff. Then I did a bunch of travelling which led to a 2 month busking tour of Europe. I think that was when I realised I could earn a living from music - which was a very welcome blessing! I moved to London at the end of that summer and started making music in earnest.
What does music mean to you?
Right now it means all too much. It was always my biggest passion. But when you live your life in the studio it becomes more of an obesession. It's my daily bread.
Where do you draw influence from as an artist?
People. People I meet and people I love and people I observe.
If you could work with anybody going forward, who would you choose and why?
That list is endless... James Blake would be a good one. I'm desperate to do something with Dev Hynes. Basically I'm really enjoying working with off-the-wall producers right now. But essentially I want to work with everyone! Too many heroes, too little time.
Can you tell us a little bit about the creative process that's gone into making your forthcoming EP 'Give Yourself Away'?
Well I was encouraged to write, and write, and write again. So I did. I spent the last 9 months or so in various wonderful studios with various wonderful people, essentially writing whatever came to mind at the time.
Eventually we started finding a consistent sound and built on it. These four songs are just a little insight into what we have been making. And they are also an insight into where the sound is going as a whole.
What differences should those who heard your debut EP expect this time around?
It's more grown up, for sure. The production is fuller and darker. It's still my songwriting and still my voice; just a little older, and just a little better.
How important is it for you to have control over the material you create?
It is the bottom line.
What do you hope people take away from your music?
I just want people to feel something. That's the plan anyway.
You're playing Barn On The Farm festival on July 7 and your EP launch party follows on July 15 - what should those coming to your live performances expect?
Well the 15th will be my first ever gig with a band. It will also be a massive party! Anybody coming to that night will have a good laugh! Barn on the farm I'll be playing solo.. So no band... But a lot of loop pedals, a few more ciders and a little more intimacy.
Should we expect a music video for your single 'Give Yourself Away'?
Yes of course! It's a little weird... Though I say that proudly. It's all done and graded so I know exactly what it looks like. It's a dark video with a lot of performance and a few people in masks. Expect the unexpected.
What are some of your favourite parts of being a musician?
Well you get encouraged a lot - I think we all need encouragement, and it comes a little easier when you are out there creating something.
I also love being involved in the inception of a song which can be written in minutes but could last for years - that's pretty special.
Do you have tour plans for the future?
Immediate tour plans are for a few days in the west-country (down South where I grew up) and maybe a little jaunt through Belgium and Netherlands in late summer... I love playing in Belgium because they ply me with beers and chocolates.
Are there any other projects you're currently involved with that you can share some details about?
I'd have to kill you. Tell your friends.
Follow Matt Woods on Twitter @MattWoodsMusic and keep an eye out for the EP, dropping July 14.