Matthew Stevens has spent years as one of jazz's most sought-after collaborators, his guitar work a constant presence on records that have defined the current generation of the music. A self-titled album this deep into a career is a deliberate act, a declaration that what you're hearing is the artist at their most unguarded and essential. With his self-titled new album-out May 8 on Candid Records-Grammy-winning guitarist, producer, and songwriter Matthew Stevens delivers a definitive midcareer mission statement. Long recognized as one of the most thrilling and thoughtful guitarists of his generation, Stevens has built an elite reputation in music, touring and recording with a "who's who" of modern icons, including Esperanza Spalding, Christian Scott Atunde Adjuah, Harvey Mason, and Walter Smith III.On this new release, Stevens steps fully into the spotlight, performing at the absolute peak of his powers. The music seamlessly melds acoustic and electric sonics through a mix of genre-blurring originals and deeply personal covers. The album features a multigenerational cast of musicians, including mentors like Terri Lyne Carrington, personal guitar heroes like Jeff Parker, and rising visionaries such as vibraphonist Joel Ross and vocalists Anna B Savage and Corey King. Co-produced by Stevens alongside Josh Johnson and Eric Doob, the record is the culmination of 20 years of craft. It reflects a period of profound personal and artistic change, ultimately bringing Stevens to "a place of optimism, excitement, and confidence" that signals a bold new chapter for one of jazz's most essential voices. Tracklist 1. Take Heart 2. Hazy (Intro) 3. Hazy 4. SMLS 5. 1000 Times 6. Edgewood 7. Who Does She Hope To Be? 8. Born Of Silence 9. Alberta 10. The Air Is Thick UPC: 708857335527Label: CandidRelease Date: 5.8.26Format: CD
