Band Details

From the Promoter

Born into a family of Newfoundland music makers, Matthew Byrne’s repertoire is heavily influenced by that unique musical lineage – the weaving of a great story with a beautiful melody – and he supports this tradition with powerful vocals, polished guitar work, and a presence that fills the room. His repertoire transcends time and place and his live performance reminds us how satisfying traditional songs can be when stripped down to their basic elements.

Matthew’s music has traveled well beyond the rugged shores of his Newfoundland home since his 2010 debut, Ballads. Touring as both a solo artist as well as singer with The Dardanelles, he has graced major festival stages worldwide. With his second album, Hearts & Heroes, receiving Traditional Recording of the Year at the 2015 Canadian Folk Music Awards, Byrne has established himself as one of Canada’s most authentic and vital traditional voices.

Matthew Byrne released his highly-anticipated third album, Horizon Lines on August 11th, 2017. This newest collection of traditional material explores a unique repertoire of songs from both sides of the Atlantic and continues Byrne’s journey through his own unique musical lineage.

WHAT THEY'RE SAYING ...

“Possibly the finest interpreter of traditional songs in the country.” – Roddy Campbell, Penguin Eggs Magazine

“His reverence and respect for his material, along with his unabashed exploration of new songs and his staggeringly beautiful voice, makes for the rarest and most vital type of folk performer." – Tom Power, CBC Music

“It’s increasingly rare to find male traditional singers who are not just good, but GREAT! Matthew is certainly in that truly great category.” – Brian O’Donovan, WBGH Boston

“Matt’s interpretation of traditional songs is somehow fresh and ancient at the same time. And his voice is friggin’ perfect.”- Alan Doyle

“Matthew Byrne sings with a voice as true as a compass needle and is a dab hand on his instruments as well. His Ballads is one of the finest English language traditional albums to come out in many a year.” – James Keelaghan