Bruce Matthews Band Performs at LowellArts House Concert

The LowellArts House Concerts continue to entertain Saturdays from 7pm-9pm.  This Saturday, the Bruce Matthews Band (BMB) will take to the stage with an acoustic or “not having electrical amplification” feel for the evening.  The public is invited to listen to some of the band’s originals as well as some new content.

Front Porch Music

While the BMB has played in bars, lead man Bruce Matthews says, “We’ve never been a bar band and with a ‘Front Porch Music’ style we like to invite the audience into our songs with stories and personal notes.”  Playing to an audience without competing with bar noise is more his style. The band’s music is more suited for drawing in the audience by way of lyrics, many of which are drawn from Matthews’ experiences and lessons learned in life.  “We’ve got a couple new original songs, a different take on some of our other originals and we’ve added in some great songs that are new to us.” he says of the lineup for Saturday evening.

In addition to vocals, mainly by Matthews, the audience will hear other instruments.  Sheila DeGroot will be on keyboard and singing. Alison Myers, who also plays with Peat in the Creel, play the flute and whistle.  And Joey Fester will pick up the electric bass. A longer list of people have participated in BMB over the years on CD releases and performances.  The over 20 musicians have primarily met through leading worship together at Ada Bible Church according to Matthews.

Life Outside the Band

Matthews retired from the North Country Trail Association two years ago.  Even in retirement he’s continues to be involved with the organization through volunteering.  Recently he was in Washington, DC overseeing the outcome of the now passed Natural Resources Management Act which includes two route changes to the North Country Trail.  This is a huge deal for the trail, which has headquarters in downtown Lowell.  Additionally, Matthews enjoys spending time with his seven grandkids (with an eighth on the way).  He also has had time to write some new material, some of which will be premiering on March 30.

“I’m not sure our community realizes just how many ways Lorain and LowellArts! supports the arts locally.” Matthews says of the opportunity to perform at one of the House Concerts.  Those looking for a fun evening out, listening to music sure to touch the soul in some way, are invited to LowellArts Saturday, March 30 from 7 pm – 9 pm to hear the Bruce Matthews Band perform.  Tickets can be purchased online and are $10 in advance and $12 at the door.  

House Concerts will be winding down in May, but that only means the Lowell Showboat Sizzlin’ Concerts are just around the corner!  

All photos courtesy of Bruce Matthews and used with permission.

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