The Blowout

Bringing a new blend of rock and roll to the Twin Cities music scene, the Blowout is already gaining attention for their catchy tunes, unique sounds and powerful lyrics.

Hailing from South Africa, frontman Paul Mathis began exploring music at the age of 14. He regularly played drums for popular South African bands like Tweak and Flatworld Society while launching a music career as a studio drummer and songwriter.

In 2002, Paul moved to Minnesota to be closer to his brothers. He got involved with the Minneapolis music scene, playing all around the Twin Cities with local favorites like Culture Cry Wolf and The First to Go.

Since then, he’s been a regular at top Minnesota venues like First Ave, the Fine Line, Nomad, Honey, Bunker’s, and the Triple Rock.

But for Paul, the Blowout is about more than just being on stage.

“My music deals with subjects like addiction, pain, and things people deal with every day that they don’t always speak about,” he says. “My message is pretty straight-forward and I use it to help people.”

Paul added that growing up in a tough family situation made him learn a lot about the ups and downs of life, and he now uses that experience to motivate and encourage others.

“My main concern is to have my music out there and give people peace of mind that everything’s going to be ok,” Paul says. “It’s kind of my interpretation of how you can deal with things without using drugs, alcohol, sex and suicide.”

The Blowout draws their influence from some of today’s most respected artists, like Rage Against the Machine, Incubus, the Roots, and Mat Kearney.

Live Band:
John Lehmkuhl – Lead Guitar, Vox
Tony Renaud – Bass
Justin Feland – Drums