Matthew Holtby has released an intimate, thoughtful, reflective and uplifting new project in the form of EP Yesterday. Released through Atlanta label Pacifirecords, Holtby’s performances feel live and intentionally simple, often pairing his vocal with just an acoustic guitar, though occasionally introducing strings and piano for more emotive moments.
With warm recordings, the vocals feel both taciturn and passionate, understated but powerful. Rooted in the reality of the world but drawn to the love and beauty it has to offer, each track is well-suited to this raw setting. The lack of artificial polishing makes it no less pieced together, with clear care and attention given to every bit of the production.
Holtby shares an insight into the recording, “I had the house to myself one evening, and decided to put up a couple of mics and just perform a handful of songs for the cats. After combing through the recordings, I thought they were a real raw representation of what I’m doing live lately, and decided to move one step further with them. I reached out to some friends who are exceptional at what they do, and this is the result.”
Accompanying videos are made from a collection of home movies, featuring clips of Matthew’s grandparents, aunts, uncles and father in their childhood.
Hailing from Warkworth, Ontario, Matthew has been songwriting and performing for nearly two decades, looking to connect to audiences, especially with recently solo work that takes inspiration from love, loss, and redemption.
Listen to the EP here:
Check out the video for ‘Yesterday’ below…
