The Boston music scene is a notoriously challenging landscape, with an abundance of talented musicians vying for attention and opportunities. However, one artist has managed to carve out a unique niche for himself, blending his dynamic guitar playing, songwriting prowess, and multifaceted musical abilities to make a lasting impact. Meet Arlo Matthews, a rising star who is poised to leave an indelible mark on the city's vibrant music community.

Unlocking the Potential of a Musical Prodigy

From Reluctant Beginner to Accomplished Songwriter

Arlo Matthews' musical journey began with a reluctant start, as he admitted that in his early days, he "never wanted to put in any effort" and just wanted to be good at the guitar immediately. However, that all changed in January 2019 when he rededicated himself to the instrument, teaching himself how to play and sing. This newfound determination led him to form his first band, Flipside, where he collaborated with fellow guitarist and songwriter Aiden Bonilla. Together, they honed their songwriting skills, with Bonilla providing the musical foundations and Matthews crafting the lyrics and melodies.

Debut Album: "Waiting for Daybreak"

The songs Matthews and Bonilla wrote during their time in Flipside would eventually become the backbone of Matthews' debut album, "Waiting for Daybreak," released in October 2022. The album marked a significant milestone in Matthews' career, as it was the first time he had truly put himself out there as a musician, transitioning from a "well-kept secret" to a public-facing artist. The process of writing and recording the album was a three-year journey, and the release was a monumental moment for Matthews, who had long dreamed of this achievement.

Standout Track: "Coming Home"

Among the standout tracks on "Waiting for Daybreak" is "Coming Home," a song that Matthews regards as one of his proudest accomplishments. The track originated from a guitar riff crafted by Bonilla, which Matthews then built upon with his own lyrics and melody. The result is a catchy, energetic tune that Matthews plans to feature prominently in his live performances, describing it as "fun, has a catchy chorus and a cool solo at the end."

Navigating the Competitive Boston Music Scene

Releasing his debut album was a significant step for Matthews, but it also marked the beginning of a new challenge: breaking into the highly competitive Boston music scene. Initially, Matthews struggled to secure live performance opportunities, noting that the city's music landscape is "incredibly competitive and you have to know a person to get in somewhere." However, his persistence paid off, and his breakthrough came in March 2024 when he performed at Underhill, a renowned Boston basement venue that had long been on his radar.

Diversifying His Musical Talents

In addition to his skills as a singer-songwriter and guitarist, Matthews has also expanded his musical repertoire, learning to play bass, ukulele, keyboards, and harmonica. This versatility has not only made him a more well-rounded musician but has also opened up new opportunities for him to collaborate and perform with various groups in the Boston area. He is the frontman of the Arlo Matthews Band, a "revolving door band" featuring a rotating lineup of musicians, and he also plays guitar and sings backing vocals for the funk-inspired jam band Off by One. Furthermore, Matthews has joined the backing band for Boston-based indie folk musician Julian Spector, where he contributes his keyboard and synthesizer skills.

Bridging the Boston and Connecticut Music Scenes

While Matthews has firmly established himself in the Boston music scene, he has not forgotten his roots in Connecticut. He has continued to perform in his home state, both with the Arlo Matthews Band and with Overlöded, the indie punk group founded by his former Flipside bandmate, Aiden Bonilla. In September 2023, Matthews had the opportunity to play in Storrs, Connecticut, performing with Overlöded and sitting in with the jam band AshBaby, further solidifying his connections to the local music community.

Embracing the Best of Both Worlds

Matthews' ability to navigate and thrive in both the Boston and Connecticut music scenes is a testament to his versatility and adaptability. He recognizes the unique qualities of each scene, stating, "There's very limited crossover sometimes between these scenes. But I think I really get the best of both worlds and of both states." This dual-state presence has allowed Matthews to expand his reach, connect with diverse audiences, and cultivate a multifaceted artistic identity that sets him apart in the crowded music landscape.