Iain Matthews and Plumhall are thrilled to announce a run of shows together in June 2024. Plumhall will open for Iain, with the promise of a sprinkle of musical collaboration during the show.
There’s a purity about Iain Matthews’ voice. And it’s mirrored by the integrity of his career.
The singer-songwriter has never been seduced by fame. His focus has always been on creating music that captivates the ear, the mind and the heart.
Born Ian Matthews McDonald, June 16, 1946, in Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire, England, he soared to prominence in 1967, as a founding member of Fairport Convention. In that pioneering band, Matthews created exquisite harmonies with first Judy Dyble, then Sandy Denny.
After two years, he left and formed Matthews Southern Comfort. They enjoyed a huge hit with their stirring version of Joni Mitchell’s “Woodstock.”
One of the outstanding solo albums Matthews recorded during his years in Los Angeles was 1973’s “Valley Hi,” produced by Michael Nesmith.
Matthews has fronted such bands as Plainsong, Hi-Fi, No Grey Faith, More Than a Song and a Dutch jazz combo, The Searing Quartet. After working for a while in A&R, in 1987 Matthews returned to performing and recording as a solo artist for a time. Mostly based in Austin Texas.
Since returning to live in Europe in 2000, he focused again on his now all Dutch ensemble, Matthews Southern Comfort and his seemingly never ending stream of solo recordings. Matthews most recent album releases include “A BAKERS DOZEN”, a collection of current stage songs and a solo effort, plus “FAKE TAN”, recorded in Norway two years ago, with Norwegian icons, The Salmon Smoker’s.
A collaboration with British writer Ian Clayton in 2018 produced his highly praised memoirs,Thro my eyes.
These days Matthews prefers to focus more on acoustic solo shows, where he tells stories and plays many fan favorites from his 50 year career. He says, ‘I have nothing more to prove and this approach to live shows gives me an instant rapport.
He will also have a new solo album “How much is enough” set for release in the Spring of 2024.
“Iain Matthews is still reinventing himself, and with great effect. This is music for the masses, delivered with honesty and passion” Robert Plant
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Plumhall is the critically acclaimed UK duo of Michelle Plum (Chumbawamba, The Chris Norman Band) and Nick B Hall (Magna Carta, Ian Prowse & Amsterdam, The Hall Brothers). Their mesmerizing blend of acoustic and electric instruments, exquisite vocal harmonies, and exceptional musicianship have earned them numerous accolades and wowed audiences worldwide. A powerful live act with an ever-growing following, 2024 promises to be Plumhall’s most exciting year yet - including a 30-date UK tour as special guests of the legendary Fairport Convention and the release of their third album, ‘One Star Awake’.
They recently performed with the wonderful Al Stewart in London at The Palladium and Cadogan Hall. They have also jammed onstage with former Bob Dylan guitarist and Levon Helm producer Larry Campbell, as well as folk luminaries such as Steve Knightley, Phil Beer, Chris Leslie and many more. Their first concert as Plumhall was a support for Peter Tork, where they joined the Monkees legend on-stage to sing Daydream Believer!
In 2020 Plumhall was asked to write a song for, curate the folk music for and appear in the film The Runaways (starring Molly Windsor, Tara Fitzgerald and Mark Addy). Their livestream shows built a global online community during the pandemic, inspiring a stunning video for their song "A Darkness That Won't Leave The House," which was recognized by Janice Long on BBC radio. Their two albums to date (‘Thundercloud’ and ‘The Ghost Of Noise’) were both highly-acclaimed - the former being highlighted as a Guardian/Observer Hidden Gem.
“Articulate, penetrating lyrics with captivating melodies and…. irresistible choruses. Arresting vocals and that distinctive big acoustic sound.” R2 Magazine
“A fine duo...go and see them if you get the chance” Steve Knightley - Show of Hands
“Their chemistry as a duo makes them special [with] sumptuous vocal harmonies and telepathic guitar interactions. Michelle is one of the UK’s leading chanteuses. Nick is a consummate storyteller, powerful vocalist and exceptional guitarist.” Dave Scott - Blues In Britain Magazine
