26th April 2015: Early reviews for Matthew Stevens’ ‘Woodwork’ (release date May 26th) from Ottawa Citizen and Indie Shuffle.
NYC-based Guitarist and composer Matthew Stevens is heralded as one of the most promising young artists in contemporary jazz music through his associations with NEXT Collective, Christian Scott, Esperanza Spalding, Terri Lyne Carrington, Walter Smith III, and Harvey Mason. Now Stevens comes fully into his own with his debut recording as a leader, Woodwork. The album showcases Stevens’ diverse influences, his warm, robust sound, and his fluid, emotive playing at the helm of a stellar quintet which features multiple Grammy-nominated pianist Gerald Clayton, bassist Vicente Archer, drummer Eric Doob and percussionist Paulo Stagnaro.
Woodwork is exclusively available on iTunes until May 26th. Click the link to go to the relevant site wherever you are.
Here are two early reviews for ‘Woodwork’ and the full length title track from the album.
“Stevens has vaulted quickly to the forefront of his jazz generation… distinctive originality… Stevens’ sense of drive and commitment help make the music as lucid as it needs to be and then some.”
Ottawa Citizen (full review)
“Matthew Stevens is a dedicated young guitarist who has been making waves in the world of jazz through his guitar wizardry and collaborations with folks like Esperanza Spalding.”
Indie Shuffle (full review)