9th May 2015: Ahead of May 26th release date, Matthew Stevens’ Woodwork named Downbeat Magazine’s Editor’s Choice + Wax Poetics exclusive video feature

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 available exclusively on iTunes until 26th May, go: smarturl.it/matthewstevens and ahead of the official release date the album has been made editor’s pick in Downbeat Magazine (website) and been featured with an exclusive video by Wax Poetics.

Here are the highlights:

“Stevens incorporates a range of influences, including Americana and fusion flavors. There’s a density to his compositions that gives them an intellectual heft, but the mood is lightened thanks to the fluidity of the solo segments, including [Gerald] Clayton’s fiery, improvised lines on “Grown Ups.” Stevens can write a memorable melody, as he does on the title track, which melds an accessible theme with unpredictable, intricate solos.”
Editor’s Choice, Downbeat Magazine (full feature)

Wax Poetics featured the track “Processional” from Woodwork with this video (below) shot on location in Toronto.
Wax Poetics (full feature)