M. Ward

So, I thought I'd tell you about my absolute favorite living musician. He's from Portland and his name is Matt Ward (although he goes by M. Ward). I've only heard him play a couple of times (once him solo at the Tugboat and once at the Roseland during his tour with Bright Eyes and Jim James). Both times he totally blew my mind. Just him on his guitar, with this gravelly voice--it almost tickles, like he's whispering the melody in your ear. Anyway he's great, and he has a new record coming out February, 21. Click here for a sneak preview. And for those of you lucky enough to be in the London area for Valentine's Day, go check him out at Rough Trade.