By Kate Bartlett
Nashville based band The Massacoustics will be playing in Ellicottville at the Gin Mill on Thursday, May 22 at 8pm. Brothers Andrew and Matthew Thompson have performed their own brand of writer rock all over the world, and are excited to return to the Ellicottville area.
Andrew and Matthew have been making music together for over 26 years. Growing up in Massachusetts, Andrew recalls being introduced to music at a young age and playing in bands with friends through junior and high school.
Matt moved, with his brother, to Nashville, Tennessee for college at Bellmont University, a school known for their music-based programs. “Ironically, we went to school on track scholarships,” laughs Matt. “We literally couldn’t run from home fast enough. We were excited to further our experience in the music world.”
They officially formed The Massacoustics in 2000, an acoustic duo with Andrew on guitar and lead vocals and Matt on drums, bass and vocals. Matt describes their sounds as Americana and Country Rock, writing all original music, with an occasional cover during live shows. Living in Nashville, they’ve been influenced by all types of music, fully immersing themselves in music city. “It’s been great to play with so many different bands in the area,” says Matt. “We’ve gained valuable experiences and our sound has evolved as we hear and play with different musicians.”
The Massacoustics typically play about 8 shows per year, taking their time easing into the music scene, learning along the way. They’ve enjoyed playing in various locations across America, and return to their favorite venues frequently, like Key West. “We love playing winters in Key West,” says Matt. “We’ve played 1-2 shows here every year for the past several years. We play at the Key West Theatre; it’s a great experience with a great energy. Quite the different crowd that the bar scene. It’s great for a change of pace.”
Over the years, The Massacoustics have built quite the repertoire of songs, creating 4-5 albums. Currently, they’re releasing new songs on Spotify, and their music can be streamed on Apple Music. They’ve been inspired by The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan and Paul Simon, but also by recent artists including Jimmy Johnson and Chris Stapleton. “It’s great to hear new artists putting out such great music,” says Matt. “We’re inspired by great music and new sounds like Jason Isbell and Billy Strings.”
While their music has evolved over the years, they’ve stayed true to their roots. “We have our own unique sound,” says Matt. “Even if we try to play a Bob Dylan song, it comes out like Matt and Andy playing Bob Dylan. We can’t help putting our own sound to our music.”
Matt and Andy are looking forward to returning to Ellicottville, as they’ve enjoyed playing here in the past. “It’s been a while, and we’re looking forward to coming back. It’s such a beautiful, relaxing town with a great energy. We’re hoping to make in an annual visit.”
For more information visit themassacoustics.net and follow on Facebook and Instagram. Hear their music on their website, or steam from themassacoustics.net. Experience their music live on Thursday, May 22 at 8pm at the Gin Mill.