The Tallest Man on Earth

The Tallest Man on Earth

The Tallest Man on Earth is the stage name of Kristian Matsson, a Swedish singer-songwriter from Leksand, Sweden, born in 1983. He grows up in Leksand in the province of Dalarna and begins his solo career in 2006 after previously singing with the indie band Montezumas.

Style and approach

His work falls within contemporary folk and folk, with acoustic songwriting at its centre. His music is often compared with Bob Dylan, both for songwriting and vocal delivery. Matsson says he starts listening to Dylan at fifteen and then explores older American folk music, including artists such as Pete Seeger and Woody Guthrie, although he does not regard his own work as part of any particular tradition.

He uses a range of open tunings, with standard tuning less frequently. He receives classical guitar training as a child, but later loses interest in the instrument before discovering open tunings while listening to Nick Drake in his early twenties. He values the style because it lets him concentrate on singing while still playing intricate guitar parts.

Recordings and performances

Since 2006, Matsson releases four full-length albums and two EPs. He records and produces this material at home, and usually captures voice and guitar on the same track. He is also known for a highly expressive stage presence.

Personal and collaborative work

Matsson is previously married to Amanda Bergman, who also performs as Idiot Wind. Together they write the music for the Swedish drama film Once a Year.