The Drifter and the Dream (part I)
"Each song on the album is a timeless piece that shares a lush and harmonious sound, filled to the brim with dreamy overtones. A musical genius of sorts for the modern era, Townsend enlists a few of his friends on the record which creates layers of musical foundation for the tracks. His attention to details when penning songs for the record is impeccable. Featuring elements of darkness and light in mankind, and the vibrancy of the vulnerable, he portrays in his pieces the choices that people may to shape their life's journey." says No Depression.
Townsend has been on the road with his songs for the past five years and performs both solo and with his band.
His song "For Now, We Are", with the accompaniment of the Asheville Symphony Orchestra, recently appeared on "The Asheville Symphony Sessions" released in 2015.
He released his first EP "What Light Shall Be" in 2012 while living in Burlington, VT. He also recorded there his first LP, "Matt Townsend and the Wonder of the World" which was released in 2014.
"I know. It seems unfathomable. Comparing an up and coming artist to the likes of Bob Dylan and Neil Young would usually be considered musical sacrilege in the highest form. However when it comes to Matt Townsend, the connection is not only accurate, but further distinguishes him as possibly the most quintessential folk artist currently in the country." - Crave Online
"Townsend's voice is haunting as well as breathtaking as he croons every note. Each song on the album is a timeless piece that shares a lush and harmonious sound, filled to the brim with dreamy overtones. A musical genius of sorts for the modern era, Townsend enlists a few of his friends on the record which creates layers of musical foundation for the tracks. His attention to details when penning songs for the record is impeccable. Featuring elements of darkness and light in mankind, and the vibrancy of the vulnerable, he portrays in his pieces the choices that people may to shape their life's journey. " -No Depression
"Matt Townsend has become a highly regarded musician hailing from Asheville, North Carolina. Recently we are treated to his latest venture which comes in the form of The Drifter and the Dream (Part 1). A blissful record from start to finished, Townsend puts a new spin on a vintage sound. The 5-track masterpiece was recorded by Michael Selverne. Performing across the country for over 5 years, Townsend creates the perfect record, as it dives deep into his musical musings." -Paste
The Asheville Symphony Sessions
“Singer-songwriter Matt Townsend usually performs with an acoustic guitar, either solo or with his band, The Wonder of the World. And he writes his songs for that configuration — drums and bass. But, he says, “a lot of times I’ll hear other parts.” A fully orchestrated tune is just a dream to many musicians, but that vision was realized for Townsend when the Asheville Symphony Orchestra tapped him for a collaborative album project.”