I was fortunate enough to receive a lovely, handmade Tank Drum for Christmas from my partner, and have been almost unable to put it down since. I’ve been wanting one of these since seeing a handpan street performer in Lisbon back in October 2016.
In the spirit of the New Year, here’s my first ever video featuring the drum, featuring the Westminster Quarters chime! — Matt
Meeting one of my Music Heroes
I was fortunate enough recently to meet one of my all-time heroes, the great Julie Fowlis, after watching her amazing performance live at The Stables, near Milton Keynes.
She was gracious enough to hang around for a meet and greet, and I managed to capture a picture.
Naturally I had to record a cover of one of her tracks, so I picked my favourite one of all: Òganaich Uir A Rinn M’ Fhàgail. I first heard this one on BBC’s Transatlantic Sessions, and was immediately taken with it, so here’s my humble attempt at recreating the theme of the tune – enjoy! –Matt
“Coming Home (Live)” now available on Youtube
A second clip from ‘An Evening with Matt Stevenson’ live at The Core @ Corby Cube has been released to Youtube. This time featuring Elio Andrade on vocals, this song was originally written by Timo Tolkki and recorded by Stratovarius on their 1997 “Visions” album.
This has always been a favourite of mine, and exemplifies the quality of Tolkki’s work while he was with the band Stratovarius. My version, whilst different from the original, aims to strike a strong contrast between the longing of the lyrics in the early verses and the certainty of the lyrics immediately before the guitar solo. As the solo begins, the song transforms from delicate ballad into something much more powerful!
This was a real joy to perform, and I hope that you enjoy listening to it – Matt.
“All the trust that was built along the years
Is coming back to stay.
I know, just look ahead, the road is free,
I’m coming home.”
Live clip of “Moscow Nights“ now on Youtube
Welcome to the new site!
Thanks for your visit. This is the new website for Matt Stevenson, musician from Northamptonshire, England. Over the coming weeks the site will be updated with music, photos and other information.