On paper, Vancouver based post metal act MATADOR is just a trio, but they surely know how to come up with an orchestral sound and embed it into a self-recorded DIY debut that sounds equally focused and adventurous. “They Were Here Before Us” unveils impressive compositions and sound thickened by mysterious atmosphere that makes it clear that there’s something lurking just beneath its surface. MATADOR occupy a space that touches on experimental post rock, instrumental post metal, and though it goes through territories well explored by others, it somehow adds its own spice. We have teamed up with the band to learn their story and give you more insights about this impressive offering.
James (guitarist) former member of Lucia had a bunch of ideas that didn’t necessarily fit within Lucia so Matador was created. Scott (drummer) fits the Matador mould perfectly with similar influences and the same general outlook on band life. 3 piece currently going through line up change with bassist and potentially looking for 2nd guitar.
Our new EP was self recorded (in a garage in East Vancouver)/self funded/self released. Engineered and mixed by James (who works as an audio engineer in his day job).
All music is inspired by bands such as Russian Circles, Windhand, Spotlights, Isis, Tool, Monolord, Explosions In The Sky…and many more.
Credits: Engineered and mixed by James Kirk; Drums recorded by Tom Cooper – tomcooperproducer.com; Mastered by Neil Pickles – revealsound.com; Cover art by Ellie Cryer – elliecryer.com; Layout/Logo by Piers Martin
Track by track commentary:
Foreveren – named and dedicated to the memory of a good friend who sadly passed. The first song that was written after his passing
Black Rose – the whole first section leading up to the heavy part was ripped out and replaced on the fly during recording as the original section wasn’t working
Forests – Experimenting with alternate tunings/time signatures
Submarine – a riff that wouldn’t go away. Intended as an ‘interlude’
They Were Here Before Us – Actually a track that probably shouldn’t be on the EP – some folk like it but we’re not super keen!
Riding With The Witch – Inspired by sleep paralysis, a condition that James suffers from occasionally. Also a dive into the heavier stoner/desert metal influences (Windhand/Monolord/Electric Wizard)
Plans for 2020:
Plan for 2020 is to hunker down in the practise room, get everything super tight and write some more music. Aim to be playing shows in the summer thru winter. No better practise than playing live and we think a band should be judged more on their live performance than anything else as that is the true essence of a band. Also aim to be looking at recording another EP at least around this time next year.
Vancouver alt & heavy scene:
The heavy scene in Vancouver seems to be thriving. There are so many GREAT local bands, lots of great shows going on and everyone is super friendly. Some faves include Waingro, Dead Quiet, Lucia, Baptists, Sumac (local ish)
