M. Ward

Portland-based Matt Ward has released a clutch of acclaimed solo records since leaving Californian three-piece Rodriguez. He is also known for his political views, after appearing on the anti-Bush ‘Vote for Change’ tour in 2004.

M. Ward released a sparse and conversational debut album, Duet for Guitars No.2, in 1999. End of Amnesia followed two years later and added to his burgeoning reputation. Transfiguration of Vincent (2003) was a quiet ode to a dear departed friend which earned more warm praise, after which his debut album earned a re-release on a bigger label. In 2004 M. Ward joined R.E.M., Bruce Springsteen and Bright Eyes on the ‘Vote for Change’ tour, which sought to convince voters to vote George W. Bush out of office. Returning to the recording studio, Transistor Radio (2005) followed to more enthusiastic reviews, and Post-War (2006) looked ahead to the aftermath of the Iraq war.

M. Ward has frequently collaborated with Conor Oberst from Bright Eyes, as well as artists such as My Morning Jacket, Cat Power and Beth Orton. In 2008 he worked with actress Zooey Deschanel as She & Him, releasing the album Volume One.