What is it about the blues that cheers us up? Maybe we realize we’re not alone in our troubles—and music vocalizes wordless aches. Maybe it’s refreshing to be encouraged to accept, even explore our cares. Possibly, though, it’s as simple as this genre it is just so damn good—and a master is Matt Schofield. This guitarist, singer, songwriter and producer is so enthusiastically and widely praised, one worries that he’ll have the blues hugged right out of him. Yet he goes on. His blend of unapologetic blues and rock is unique and confident, seeming to dare, “You don’t like it, move along.” But who would turn away from such honesty and skill? His blues is for the brave.
With an intro like that, you might think Schofield was born on a summer’s day on the dusty earth of deep Louisiana. In fact, he’s a Brit. His countrymen are proud to claim him their own—Guitar & Bass Magazine rated Schofield one of the top ten British blues guitarists of all time, which includes such rock royalty as Eric Clapton and Peter Green.
If you like to peel the veneer off of life and experience raw talent, in the standing of our own southern music aristocracy, like cool B.B. King and acrobatic Stevie Ray Vaughan, then Schofield has something to play for you.