Smooth, soulful and sensitive, Matt Allen is a blend between old and new R&B, drawing on influences from Stevie Wonder and Donny Hathaway to Justin Timberlake and Allen Stone. He has been singing since he could speak and having already spent well over a decade on the live scene, Matt is one of Perth’s most sought after male vocalists.
In 2010, he wrote and recorded his debut album, Over. The album’s title track received 8th place in the prestigious 2012 Australian Songwriting Awards, whilst the lead tune, Stay The Night was awarded a Runner Up in the 2012 International Song Contest.
He has currently just released his follow up EP Last Time, which can be described as smooth and soulful R&B/pop.
Last Time is a mid tempo, emotional and dynamic R&B song. The song is about feeling like you can’t help someone who you love get through a tough time. It’s about that feeling of helplessness but also to let the person know that you are there for them. “I feel like everyone has been in that situation, and of course the context may be different, but the feeling is the same. It’s not ‘sad’ but it’s definitely emotional”.
Last Time was produced by Josh Dyson from Villanova Music, Perth. It was recorded at RADA Studios, Perth by Kieran Kenderessy. Featuring musicians; Harry Winton on guitar, Josh Dyson on Bass, Elliot Smith on Drums, Chris Travaglini on keys, Harry Mitchell on keys.
“This song means a lot to me. It’s one of the most personal songs I’ve ever written. I wanted the song to have a sense of timelessness, so I really wanted it to be played by a live band. There’s nothing quite like the dynamics of live musicians and because of the emotional journey in this song, I didn’t think any other type of production could relay it better and the band absolutely smashed it.” - Matt Allen
Aside from being a solo artist, Matt is also the director and founder of the WAAPA Gospel Choir who have worked with the likes of hip hop giants Drapht and Coin Banks (plus some exciting future prospects currently in the works). Matt personally collaborated with Coin Banks in writing the chorus of his new single ‘Forgive Us’ which has been receiving a load of airplay on Triple J and other stations nationally.
