Matt DeAngelis – All Good Things

By: Jamie Steinberg

Q) How would you describe your sound?

A) I would describe my sound as progressive pop, as I have elements of both progressive rock and pop in my music. My songs are often progressive with multiple changing parts, but often have key hooks that resemble pop elements.

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

A) My earliest musical influence was early David Bowie at around age eight or nine, specifically when I first heard Honky Dory.  He helped to shape my songwriting from a very early age. From there throughout the rest of my childhood and into my teen years, I was also exposed to progressive rock bands such as Yes, Genesis and Gentle Giant, along with piano based musicians Billy Joel and Elton John. I also developed interests in the bands U2, Fleetwood Mac and The Beatles. I have a plethora of musical influences that have shaped my writing as you hear it today.

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “All Good Things.”

A) “All Good Things” is a song I originally wrote about the conclusion of my childhood and the transition into adulthood. While it is true that the carefree times of childhood always come to an end, bigger and better things are in store for the future, even though it signals your innocence has been left behind. From a more global perspective, every good or bad event, for that matter, eventually comes to an end – be it a situation, a friendship, a romance, a marriage, even life itself. Departing from what one has known as some of the happiest times in their life is certainly no easy release but must be accepted by all in order to be able to adjust to the ever-evolving changes we see in this life. For those listening to this song, I intend for you to use my words to help you through the conclusion of your dependence–be it on one’s childhood or dependence on another person or situation– to become independent in the belief that where there’s life, there’s hope. While the future may seem frightening and unknown, especially in the times we are currently living, we can acknowledge that while your current situation will eventually come to an end, there will always be a tomorrow.

Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

A) I believe that fans will be able to connect to how their current situations and past events in their lives have also come to an end. This song was written specifically about the end of my childhood and the transition into adulthood but is universal and can be viewed as any ending in ones’ life.

Q) How does the video for “All Good Things” play into the message behind it?

A) My video producer and I specifically targeted the aspect of the conclusion of childhood and entrance into adulthood through musical performance on stage. It takes you from my youth learning to play the piano, until my adult years as a successful musician, as well as the conclusion of my innocence.

Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

A) My songwriting process often varies. There are many times where I begin a song by writing lyrics, while other times I immediately start with a melody on the piano or guitar. Either way, the process often takes time and several days to write one song.

Q) I see that you co-produced the song. Why is it so important to be so hands on with the production of your music?

A) I feel that music production is a very important aspect in the process of mastering a song. Being hands-on with my songs in the studio allows me to develop the songs the way I initially envisioned them, to reach their full potential. My team of producers have helped me tremendously along the way as we continue to develop my songs into the best they can possibly become.

Q) Will there be a full album or EP coming in the near future?

A) While I have been releasing singles throughout the past year or so, I have considered releasing another EP or album that features a compilation of singles I have been recording. My first EP entitled World I’m Comin’ For You was a collection of five songs recorded at Cove City Sound Studios on Long Island, New York. This EP featured legendary musicians from Billy Joel’s original band, including Liberty DeVitto on drums and Richie Cannata on the saxophone.

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?

A) I enjoy performing at the casinos in Atlantic City the most, mainly because of the atmosphere and nicer venues, but also because of the people I meet and connections I continue to make. These casinos are significant as well because not every musician or band will have the opportunity to play in these places. I also enjoy playing at the famous Bottle and Cork in Dewey Beach, Delaware. I consider myself very fortunate and honored to have these opportunities.

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

A) If there were ever a time to collaborate with Billy Joel himself or Elton John, that would be an incredible experience. I have already had amazing collaborations with Billy Joel’s original band and musicians, which in itself was an experience I won’t soon forget. I am open to collaborating with any musician or artist.

Q) What artist/musician are you currently listening to and why do you dig them?

A) I am currently listening to Paul McCartney and some of his solo records. Paul is another tremendous influence for me, and I cannot say enough good about his artistry as a musician and songwriter. He has inspired me in ways I never thought imaginable.

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

A) To all my fans and supporters of my work, I would like to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support means the world to me, and my goal is to inspire you with my music and make your lives better by bringing you inspiration and enjoyment.