Ansel Matthews

A veteran of the New York City music scene, Ansel Matthews has seen and heard it all. "To be blessed to stand in the middle of one of the world's richest confluence has profoundly affected me and consequently my music." This has produced a rich, vibriant music, complex in structure yet simple in sound. He has sung in classical and gospel choirs, been part of folk scenes which have included members such as Shawn Colvin, Suzzane Vega and Pete Seeger and has worked and played in jazz/world music clubs (Zincbar) as well as folk/rock clubs (Bitter end, Tin Angel, the Bottom Line). Ansel has toured the world as a back up singer (Gloria Gaynor band) and has showcased his music in festivals throughout North America( SXSX, NXNW, Great Hudson River Rivival). "New York has been a great place to grow! The best musicians in the world come here and you get to hang out with them share ideas, and become genuine friends. It's one big free clinic and despite the struggles, it's been a truly wonderful experience." It keeps me doing the real thang."

Musical Style:

Original soulful acoustic music that is roots oriented with beautiful mellifluous melodies and well-crafted lyrics sung by an artist with a rich authentic baritonal voice

Media Reviews:
"A POWERFUL PERFORMER WHO BRINGS A LOT OF SOUL
AND PASSION TO EVERY SONG HE SINGS!"
Singout Magazine

"AN ARTIST WITH AN INSPIRING SENSE OF SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY, AND ONSTAGE HE INSTILLS REVERENCE LIKE A CATHEDRAL."

North By Northwest Music Festival

"I CAN'T GET YOUR SONGS OUT OF MY HEAD

WHAT BEAUTY AND TRUTH"--PETE SEEGER

"Ansel Matthews, whose CD, "Raised From The Dust" has just been released is one of the most exciting singers I've heard in a long while. He's an interesting mixture of soul jazz singers Jon Lucien and Terry Callier, who fascinatingly - he's never heard, with a little bit of Richie Havens thrown in. As well as having one of the most soothing voices I've heard, he's an incredibly gifted composer and lyricist."
All About Jazz