ABOUT

Likened by Music Industry Online as the "SA version of David Gray" Matt was involved with bands "So Long Jericho" and "Four Day’s Notice" before deciding to pursue a solo career as a singer/songwriter in October ‘01.

By Dec 2001 he was back in the studio recording his debut solo album: 'The Same Old Struggles'. The album was released in South Africa in April of ‘02 to much critical acclaim, featuring on 5fm’s ‘Fanta World Chart Show’ and 3 songs appearing on Cape Town’s largest community station, CCFM charts - "Enraptured" reaching No. 1

On the heels of his debut album came the SAMA (South African Music Awards) nominated follow-up release ‘Where This Road Leads’. The album featured 12 tracks, including a re-recorded version of the Four Day’s Notice single ‘Not another love song’.

This song previously made waves by being the most frequently downloaded song in Africa on the Mp3.com charts and was re-recorded by Sony Music for their Showcase 3 CD (July ‘01).

‘Where This Road Leads’ was simultaneously released in South Africa (Sarepta Music), the USA (Independent Bands) and NZ (Parachute Music) in May ’03 licensed from Matt’s Independent Label: Upside Down Records.

After a South African tour with the album in April ‘03, Matt embarked on a 5-month international tour, performing in New Zealand, the USA as well as in the UK.

During his touring he met up with Grammy winning producer, Mitch Dane and began work on his 2nd SAMA nominated EP, ‘Tunes To Fall Awake To’ in Nashville, TN, which hit South African stores in July '04.

His music has also been featured on various local TV and video programs including 2 surfing videos for 'Zigzag' and SABC travel series ‘Going Nowhere Slowly’.

He calls 'Tunes to Fall Awake To' a "snapshot" of his life and invites listeners to sit back, relax and take a look. He confesses that his voice is full of "nuances and rhythmic imperfections" but if anything, they go unnoticed or add to his excellent performance. The songs are very personal; they're searching, they're questioning and they're echoing a call for courage, a longing for love. The 'simple' songs don't fit into any particular genre but most are focused on his vocals and guitar. Truth Magazine - December/January '05

Gentle, acoustic guitar-based music suggesting a well-trodden path of folk clubs and festivals, road trips and soul-searching. Matt sings with honesty in both his voice and lyrics nothing pretentious or pompous - just a man with a guitar singing of 'first principles' like love, longing, nature and religion. His delicate songwriting and graceful voice complement the rich production nicely. Music Industry Online - September '03

This new album features a greater sonic range than his previous work, thanks to the presence of guest musicians and bigger production capabilities. If you're into straightforward lyrics and simple song arrangements, be sure to check him out. Relevant Magazine - July/August '03

Beautiful string-enhanced melodies add even more legitimacy to Matt Allison's delicate songwriting and graceful, ever-so-raspy voice that take this project two steps away from a typical singer/songwriter effort. Where This Road Leads beckons the listener with pleading, effectively melancholy lyrics summarized by unguarded titles like 'Tattered' and 'Temptation.' Grassrootsmusic.com - May '03

A great debut by this Cape Town artist who wrote all 10 tracks. The lyrics and music are solid and the production deserves praise. Fans of light acoustic rock will love it. You! Magazine - March '03

Ex-lead vocalist, guitarist and songwriter from Cape Town based folk/pop band Four Days's Notice has released his debut solo album featuring a selection of songs that are both intimate and honest. Matt has a way of capturing his audience with his mellow, warm voice, rootsy guitar sounds and richly woven lyrics. Today Magazine - September/October '02

The Same Old Struggles plows some of the same ground that other acoustic singer/songwriters do. The sweet, steady acoustic guitar rhythm of modern day folk/pop is present. Still, Allison offers some uncharacteristic embellishments, trimmings that flavor and distinguish the project as a Matt Allison creation. Creating such an imprint in a debut effort is rare. Indeed, some artists last an entire career without venturing outside of the box. Curt McLey - Tollbooth.org - August '02