Son Terre, the stage name of Matt Gose, is an artist who masterfully blends traditional folk and blues with contemporary indie rock and post-rock sensibilities. Hailing from San Diego County, Matt's musical journey is as dynamic and layered as his sound.
Early Influences and Musical Beginnings
Growing up in San Diego County, music was a constant thread in Matt's life, offering solace and stability through a tumultuous upbringing. Long car rides were often scored by the timeless tunes of the Beach Boys, the Beatles, and blues greats like Muddy Waters. In high school, Matt acquired his first turntable, allowing him to immerse himself in his mother's old records, discovering the rich, emotive music of artists like Joni Mitchell, Stephen Stills, Jim Croce, James Taylor, and Nick Drake.
Concurently, Matt also encountered the raw energy of garage rock bands like The White Stripes, The Black Keys, and The Strokes. Concurrently, he delved into the haunting sounds of post-war blues legends such as Robert Johnson, Charlie Patton, Skip James, and Son House. These diverse influences, with their poignant lyrics and intricate melodies, began to coalesce, informing Matt's unique musical style.
The Path to Mastery
At the age of 15, Matt embarked on his own musical journey by learning to play the bass guitar. His enthusiasm and dedication quickly led him to expand his repertoire to include both acoustic and electric six-string guitars. This versatility allowed him to express a wide range of emotions and styles, setting the stage for his evolution as a musician.
For many years, Matt considered himself primarily a lead guitarist. However, as his skills developed, so did his desire to create his own music. This urge for songwriting marked a significant turning point in his journey, pushing him to explore new creative avenues.
Church and Community Influence
A pivotal aspect of Matt's musical development was his involvement in church music. Starting at 17, he played regularly in church, honing his skills as a vocalist and lead guitar player. Serving as a worship leader for over a decade, he gained valuable performance experience and learned the power of music to bring people together, inspire, heal, and serve as a conduit for deep emotional expression.
Educational Background and Inspirations
In addition to his musical pursuits, Matt holds a degree in literature, which has further enriched his songwriting and lyrical expression. The themes and narratives in his music often reflect his literary background, adding depth and complexity to his work.
Living in San Diego, Matt finds continuous inspiration in the sun, ocean, and natural beauty surrounding him. These elements are woven into his music, providing a vivid backdrop to his sound and lyrics.
Son Terre: A Unique Sound
Today, as Son Terre, Matt Gose creates music that blends traditional folk and blues with contemporary indie rock and post-rock influences. His sound is characterized by emotive depth, lyrical introspection, and intricate melodies, inviting listeners to explore his experiences and emotions.
Son Terre's music is shaped by a wide array of influences, including The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Crosby Stills and Nash, Neil Young, Nick Drake, James Taylor, Robert Johnson, Skip James, Son House, Of Monsters and Men, The Shins, The Black Keys, The White Stripes, Mumford and Sons, Caamp, Damien Jurado, Lucy Dacus, and Boy Genius.
Creating and Performing
Son Terre's creative process is deeply personal and introspective, reflecting on themes of love, loss, hope, and human complexity. His live shows are characterized by their emotional intensity and authenticity, engaging audiences in both intimate and larger settings.
Looking Ahead
As Son Terre, Matt Gose continues to evolve as an artist, seeking new ways to express his creative vision. Currently working on new projects, he is excited to share more music with the world, using his art to inspire, connect, and heal.
Conclusion
Son Terre is more than just a musician; he is a storyteller, a community builder, and a conduit for deep emotional expression. Through his unique blend of folk, blues, and indie rock, he invites listeners to join him on a journey of self-discovery and connection. Whether drawn to his intricate guitar work, heartfelt lyrics, or powerful performances, Son Terre's music offers something for everyone.
Stay tuned for upcoming releases and performances, and join Son Terre on his musical journey as he continues to explore new horizons and create music that resonates with the soul.