Portland, Oregon-based songwriter Matthew Heller doesn’t mince words.
Heller’s flavor of rock n’ roll takes traditional folk and turns the volume up, resulting in a raw and invigorating alt-rock catharsis nourished by a determined personal constitution lurking just beneath the surface.
His new EP Tragedy Town is slated for release in August 2014, and is a naturally poignant progression for Heller as he moves the listener through carefully crafted songs designed to get them thinking as much as moving.
Heller has been praised by critics for his introspective and agenda-driven songwriting. His sharp perspectives on key social issues percolates throughout his music, and the message is being received loud and clear.
Revered Portland music site PDX Pick calls Heller’s album Invitation, “A variety platter of soulful sounds—but also an invitation to listen—really listen—to the earnestly composed creative work of a fellow human being, and hear him out. It’s an invitation to connect.”
Perhaps Heller himself sums it up best, saying, “Songwriting isn’t about standing around looking cool on stage, it’s about giving away a message that’s intended to create feeling, to inspire and cultivate compassion.”
Heller’s flavor of rock n’ roll takes traditional folk and turns the volume up, resulting in a raw and invigorating alt-rock catharsis nourished by a determined personal constitution lurking just beneath the surface.
His new EP Tragedy Town is slated for release in August 2014, and is a naturally poignant progression for Heller as he moves the listener through carefully crafted songs designed to get them thinking as much as moving.
Heller has been praised by critics for his introspective and agenda-driven songwriting. His sharp perspectives on key social issues percolates throughout his music, and the message is being received loud and clear.
Revered Portland music site PDX Pick calls Heller’s album Invitation, “A variety platter of soulful sounds—but also an invitation to listen—really listen—to the earnestly composed creative work of a fellow human being, and hear him out. It’s an invitation to connect.”
Perhaps Heller himself sums it up best, saying, “Songwriting isn’t about standing around looking cool on stage, it’s about giving away a message that’s intended to create feeling, to inspire and cultivate compassion.”