From the Artist
Commenting on Winter Child’s evolution, Duke states, "Getting the songs to translate [from solo acoustic arrangements] was an amazing process, but it certainly took some thought." Duke continues, "We [Duke, Lerman and Smith] didn’t want to overdo it, so our real task was to see just how far we could go before we would pull back. It was very much like splashing paint on a canvas."
About the Artist
Duke began playing piano at the age of seven, and by ten he developed a deep love for the arts. Inspired by artists such as Van Morrison, The Band and Ani Difranco, he taught himself how to play his mother’s vintage guitar. Duke spent his high school years at Philadelphia’s St. Joseph’s Prep, where he was exposed to Ben Harper and Damien Rice. Impressed by their poignant lyrics and musical ambition, Duke threw himself into writing and began performing at coffee houses in the Philadelphia area. By the winter of 2004, Duke recorded his first demo, which fell into the hands of Marcy Rauer Wagman of Drexel University’s Music Industry Program and the newly-formed MAD Dragon Records. Subsequently, MAD Dragon Records recorded four of DukeÂ’s songs for inclusion on XYX, a compilation of twelve tracks from three artists that toured as a songwriter-circle to promote the record. The buzz surrounding XYX and Duke’s emotionally charged live shows helped MAD Dragon Records secure national distribution through Ryko Distribution. In late 2005, Duke entered the studio to record his debut LP, Winter Child, for MAD Dragon Records.
Product Description
Matt Duke presents his debut album 'Winter Child,' which was co-produced by Stewart Lerman (Loudon Wainwright, Dar Williams) and Steuart Smith (The Eagles, Shawn Colvin). This record tackles a number of topics ranging from self-destructive behavior ("To Whom It May Concern"), to casualties of inner city violence ("One Small Bird"), to the mourning of a loved one ("Don't Ask for Too Much"). "Tidal Waves," one of the forthcoming singles from 'Winter Child' and "Yellow Lights," one of the record's closing tracks, channel Duke's commentary on religion and politics, while "Ballroom Dancing" displays Duke's penchant for great literature with his ode to Hemingway's short story, "Hills Like White Elephants."
