Soul & Strings

Matthew Armitage

Matthew Armitage is a New Zealand-born multi-instrumentalist, guitarist, performer and songwriter whose work blends blues, soul and psych-infused grooves. His musical journey has taken him from Wellington’s vibrant arts community to Berlin and New York, before settling in Northern NSW in 2013, where he quickly became a standout figure in the Byron Bay music scene.

Armitage’s debut EP, Over Oceans (2014), introduced his distinctive classical guitar style, with the track “Calm Down” gaining attention alongside a visually striking video by award-winning photographer Trent Mitchell. From 2015 to 2017, he toured extensively, became a father and continued working full-time in music, co-founding two successful Byron Bay acts, The Swamps and Chesta Hedron.

The Swamps, a surf-blues and rock ’n’ roll duo formed with drummer Matt Swan (ex-Royal Blood, Elegant Shiva), quickly became a sought-after act across Byron Bay’s live music, events and wedding scenes. Performances at Bluesfest, Margot Robbie’s wedding, Splendour in the Grass and the Byron Bay Music Festival helped cement their cult following.

Chesta Hedron, formed with drummer Eli Kalaitzides, explored a darker, experimental side of Armitage’s sound, combining krautrock drones, surf guitar, sci-fi textures and hypnotic drums. Their 2015 EP, Infinite Nought, led to a national New Zealand tour in 2016.

Armitage released his debut solo album, New Tide, in 2018, showcasing his warm classical guitar style across blues, pop and soul. The album caught the attention of Australian music legend Pete Murray, who invited him on a 30-date Australian tour.

His second album, Back to the Flow (2023), further showcases his refined songwriting and signature soulful guitar work. Now based in the Northern Rivers, Armitage continues to perform, record and release new music.