The Central Nest loves talented locals. Particularly REALLY talented locals.

Recently we were lucky enough to speak with Matt Boylan-Smith about music, plucking and wishing he had started five years earlier.

Hi Matt, thanks for chatting with the Central Nest. Please tell us a little about yourself

I am a 27 year old musician. I grew up in the Blue Mountains and Bathurst and originally come from Victoria.

Music has always been a part of me. When young, I would always be singing and watching music but was generally too shy to sing in front of people. I qualified to get into the Australian youth choir but my voice broke so I didn’t really sing until after my teenage years.

How would you describe your sound?

My sound is a mixture of folky roots, with finger plucking sometimes overlaid with frisky strumming. When writing, I usually work on the melody and lyrics around the actual guitar on its own and build the song from there.

What comes out is a pretty honest and raw sound, which is great as I like to sound in the studio how I do at my gigs.

How long have they been performing? How did you get started?:

I’ve been performing for about five years live. I started not long before that. I’ve always sung but am still relatively new to guitar. I started when I walked past a second hand music store and laid eyes on my Maton guitar. I outlaid a fair sum of my money but it has paid me back a million-fold.

What is your favourite thing about performing?

Performing is a great outlet, something I appreciate more as I do it more often. I enjoy telling my story and communicating it through music.

My favourite places to perform would be the Church Bar in Bathurst and Logan Vineyard in Mudgee.

Do you have a least favourite part of the job?

I would generally say the kms on the road alone, but this is also a good time for introspect. I guess the fact that I perform whilst my friends are out enjoying their time off from their jobs is my least favourite part.

What has been your career highlight?:

There have been better known and more storied performers, but opening up for Ash Gunwald would be my highlight so far. Apart from being an incredible performer, he was also honest and upfront and gave great advice when I was probably a little bit nervous sharing the stage with him!

What advice would you give the 16 year old version of yourself?

Pick up the guitar and start playing! Don’t wait another 5 years.

What would you say to the up-and-comers in the music industry?

Work hard, do the time, be smart and take opportunities when they come, as long as they fit with what you are doing. And stick to your brand. If you’re writing and performing a softer laid back show, don’t always do pub shows. Find an audience that appreciates your style and grow that way.

Where can people find you?

My website is www.mattboylansmith.com
On Facebook at www.facebook.com/mattboylansmithmusic
On Youtube at www.youtube.com/user/mattboylo

We thank Matt for taking the time to chat with us. We love his sound and look forward to watching him perform for many years to come. Make sure you get out and support this very talented local.