About Oli Matthews
Saxophonist, Melodeon Player, Clarinettist, Percussionist, Composer & Musician
Oli Matthews is a Midlands-based Professional Musician, Composer and Performer known for his high-energy live shows, captivating instrumental tunes and genre-blending sound. With roots firmly planted in Folk, Jazz and Classical traditions, Oli has carved out his own unique style: Folk-Funk - a vibrant mix of soulful melodies, punchy brass riffs and foot-tapping bass grooves that gets audiences moving.
Oli’s journey began with formal training in Classical, Jazz and Folk styles, which lay the foundation for the dynamic and expressive musician he is today. But his experience on stage and in the studio, having collaborated with a wide range of artists and absorbing eclectic styles from around the world, has shaped his distinctive sound evident today. Over the years he has played with acclaimed line-ups such as Steamchicken, Cupola and the David Gibb Big Band before founding his own creation, the Oli Matthews Band. This new venture brings together his musical influences and creative drive to produce an unforgettable live experience.
Known for his spirited performances and multi-instrumental skills, Oli seamlessly switches between Soprano Saxophone and Melodeon, blending self-composed folk melodies with funk infused brass hooks and infectious rhythms. His compositions have a cinematic quality; gripping, groovy and impossible to sit still to. It’s no surprise that his sound has drawn comparisons to artists like Elephant Sessions, Peatbog Faeries and Trombone Shorty.
Oli’s original compositions have been performed by well-known names on the UK folk scene, including Rob Harbron, Paul Sartin and Karen Tweed. His writing is deeply melodic, but never predictable, always experimenting with rhythm and texture while staying true to the roots of the genre. His debut EP, ‘Summit’, is a testament to this creative approach. Released to enthusiastic reviews, the EP weaves together jazz-funk brass lines, earthy folk phrasing and a sense of joyous adventure. It’s music that feels at home on a big festival stage or through headphones on a road trip.
Speaking of festivals, Oli has performed at some of the UK’s biggest and best. His highlights include appearances at Glastonbury Festival of Contemporary Performing Arts, Latitude Festival, Big Feastival and Cambridge Folk Festival, alongside international tours that have taken him across Europe and Canada. Each performance is a celebration of energy and spontaneity, driven by Oli’s passion for connecting with audiences through rhythm and melody.
When it comes to musical influences, Oli draws inspiration from a broad palette. Artists like Snarky Puppy, James Brown, Bellowhead and Salsa Celtica have all shaped his sound in different ways, from the slick jazz-fusion of Snarky Puppy to the big-band folk energy of Bellowhead. The result is a style that feels familiar yet fresh, blending old-world charm with modern musical muscle.
The Oli Matthews Band was created with festivals in mind, a late-night party band designed to keep the crowd buzzing and dancing until the early hours. With several headline festival slots already under their belt for next summer, the band is quickly building a reputation for its magnetic stage presence and irresistible sound. Each show is packed with rich harmonies, driving grooves and the kind of feel-good energy that gets people out of their chairs and onto their feet.
Whether you’re discovering Oli for the first time or have followed his journey over the years, one thing’s for sure, this is music made to be felt as much as it is heard. From intimate venues to packed festival fields, the Oli Matthews Band brings the full force of Folk-Funk to every performance. So turn it up, grab your dancing shoes and come along for the ride!
