mathew joseph

Regularly plays tracks "Lay down", "Kaliyug", "Rhododendron Queen" - Mix 106 fm

Reminds me of Jethro Tull, Mahavishnu Orchestra, one track reminded me of Ringo Star re vocal qualities, another of Cream. Some people don't like being compared,but heck, being compared to those three bands ain't bad, considering their level of musicianship. The playing was superb--Mathew is a very fine guitarist. - WVKR Vassar College Poukeepsie,NY

--the title of his song which has made it into the finals is "Kaliyug"
"These days I am working on the though often tedious process of blending Indian and western classical music through the medium of the guitar" he said.
He is quite humbled to have seen his song go into the finals.
"I have listened to the other finalists in the Instrumental category and i'm glad to be in their company" - The Royal Gazette, Feb 16th, 2005

Review : http://psychevanhetfolk.homestead.com/east.html


* private        Mathew Joseph : Firefly (IND/BERM,2004)**°°               


                             Tr.2, “Amanita” 6 min (audio link added)


                             Tr.8, “Kaliyug” 5 min (audio link added) 11 -48


My favourite song and instrumental from the album. The instrumental is very good Indojazzfusion, and a great highlight of Mathew’s talent. - Gerald Van Waes

Indian-born Matthew Joseph performs a variety of songs sung in English. Mathew incorporates diverse instruments including tabla, dumbek, Spanish guitar, steel guitar, bass, violin, cello, flutes, piano, harmonium, mrdang, and cymbals. However, the overall songs structures are not highly reminiscent of typical Indian folk music. Essentially, the music features Western structures, with influences of folk, Americana and roots, with hints of reggae, too. A great album that is devoid of elaborate electronic arrangements and music musical unoriginality. Firefly is a true charm for the distinguished world music listener. - insideworldmusic.com

In his debut album Firefly Mathew Joseph demonstrates a wide variety of musical styles as well as his mastery of the guitar. The rich and diverse culture that he experienced as a child is demonstrated in this selection of pieces. The albums first song Sruthi Laya Thalam which means intonation,tempo and rhytm, starts hard and fast with an interesting blend of classical Indian and Spanish finger style guitar. Much of the focus , both musically and lyrically , is the desire to spread peace through the world."Lay Down" calls for an end to war and fighting across the globe from Sri Lanka to Africa to Afghanistan to Falluja - Bermuda Sun August 13 2004

Firefly is an acoustic album with instruments like guitar, cello, violin and also a variety of percussion instruments such as tabla,mrdang. A reminder that we live in the age of destruction it urges peace and harmony and brings a message of hope.There is something for everyone. Some songs - reggae or blues, others Indian folk."Lay Down " asks for people to lay down their weapons. - The Royal Gazette August 27 2004

" All I can say is WOW" - DJ Danny

Interviewed by Andy Kershaw on September 7th 2004 at BBC studio for the Art of Life programme.
CD airplay on Art of Life - BBC Radio Sheffield

Interview with "Cousin Juicy" on Downbeat international jazz programme. - Power 95 fm 19th September 2004