Matt Montez

Matt Montez

Matt Montez is a Padstow-born solo artist and the lead name behind The Matt Montez Duo. His music sits across acoustic rock, alternative rock, blues, country, folk and folk rock, with a roots-led acoustic sound that also draws on folk and reggae rhythms. He performs with just acoustic guitar but aims for a rhythmically varied style that can still feel danceable.

Style and themes

His songs are centred on spiritual ideas and positive messages. The writing often reflects a nomadic outlook and a connection with nature, and the performances are described as warm, uplifting and rooted in personal expression. The duo format adds vocal harmony and a second layer of interpretation to the songs.

Career

Montez starts his music career while travelling in Australia, where the landscapes and atmosphere prompt his writing. He begins to build an audience there through local radio and online radio appearances, as well as live shows in New South Wales.

In 2013 he tours around New South Wales and appears at Nimbin Roots Festival, March Against Monsanto in Bellingen, Spring Eve Festival in Nimbin, Rock The Gate at Bentley Blockade near Byron Bay, Barefoot Boogie in Bellingen and the Byron Bay Easter Markets.

The Matt Montez Duo

From 2015, vocalist Gem joins the project, turning it into The Matt Montez Duo. The pair’s sound develops around soulful harmonies and shared spiritual emphasis. In 2015 and 2016 they play almost 50 shows across Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam, then return to the UK for two tours and also tour Europe, including the Netherlands, Germany and Austria.

Festivals and live appearances

Notable festival appearances for the duo include Beat-Herder Festival in the UK, Boardmasters in the UK, Little Big Gig in the UK, Quest Festival in Vietnam, 420 Festival in Cambodia, Landjuweel Festival in the Netherlands, Jam Festival in Germany and Salford Music Festival in the UK.