Questions w/ Matthew Mayfield (part one)

Our “Questions” double-feature continues. Through addictive melodies, a rock-infused singer/songwriter style, and a voice laced with a careful aggression, Matthew Mayfield makes music that hits you in all the right ways. He recently wrapped up a tour with Needtobreathe and Serena Ryder, and also produced a music video for his song, “Open Road”. Enjoy part one of “Questions” w/ Matthew Mayfield…

StSL – So, Matthew, I hear we’re lucky to even be talking with you today considering your recent brush with death. Ok…that’s an exaggeration…but you have had some interruptions for swine-related reasons lately, so we’ll start this interview off with the simplest of questions…How are you?

MM – Man, it's been a rough ride lately. I have been having vocal troubles for the last few months, which has made touring really tough. I went to see a few different ENTs who scoped out my larynx and said there are no nodes or polyps, just a little inflammation. But whatever it is has taken a major toll on my range. I've lost quite a few notes on the high end. But I'm doing everything I know to do. I quit smoking, started drinking tons of water, warming up and cooling down, doing all the right things. Nothing seems to be helping. Maybe I should just take the Tom Waits approach and throw all of that out the window. :) He sounds pretty great. And yes, while we were on the road, I got a pretty mean case of Influenza. It made for some long nights in the bunk and some rough sets, but I'm still here. Recovering at home is a luxury.

StSL – Swine flu aside, how was your recent experience out on the road with Needtobreathe and Serena Ryder?

MM – It was such a good time. Serena and her band are so solid. And her pipes are ridiculous. The Need guys have always been like family to me and they are always so accommodating and easy to work with/live with. I'm very lucky to have them as friends. I can't tell you how exciting it was to see those guys selling out every single place we played. I've watched them build it from the ground up and it's really starting to take off for them. I hope it just keeps getting bigger and better. They deserve it.

StSL – Tell us about your EP, “Five Chances Remain Hers”. Where does that title come from and what would you hope to communicate to the listener?

MM – The title comes from a lyric that isn't on the record, but it was still relevant to that particular collection of songs. 'One's locked in the chamber...but five chances remain hers'. There are all kinds of themes wrapped up in these songs, but I think the common thread is the sense of urgency and the desire to fight for something you believe in. Going to bat time and time again for someone you love is absolutely vital in order for the survival of any relationship. This record is the sound of me realizing that.

StSL – What’s it like being an independent artist in Birmingham? Is there a strong artist community in that area?

MM – I love it here. There's definitely a little budding scene here. It's not Nashville or Austin, but it's got it's own vibe. Birmingham has been supportive of my music for a long time. It's great to have a hometown that you're proud of.

StSL – Let us inside your head a little bit. Are you seeing any outstanding themes in your songwriting lately?

MM – I met two amazing little children a while back. Their sincerity and innocence refreshed and rejuvenated my spirit in a way nothing else ever has. They are making their way into more and more songs, completely unintentional. It just spills out.

Visit MySpace.com/MatthewMayfieldMusic for more information and be sure to check back here tomorrow for part two!