Jonathan Devoto surprises some long-time fans as he bounds forward to front his own band, Bird by Bird, as lead vocalist, lead guitarist, and songwriter. However, those who have followed his eight year career with the Matches, the popular Oakland-based (and constantly touring) rock band with Devoto handling lead guitar and backing vocals, are familiar with his intense and fiery live show and magnetic stage presence even in his support role.
Through three albums (Epitaph Records) and years of...
Jonathan Devoto surprises some long-time fans as he bounds forward to front his own band, Bird by Bird, as lead vocalist, lead guitarist, and songwriter. However, those who have followed his eight year career with the Matches, the popular Oakland-based (and constantly touring) rock band with Devoto handling lead guitar and backing vocals, are familiar with his intense and fiery live show and magnetic stage presence even in his support role.
Through three albums (Epitaph Records) and years of international touring, Devoto generated raves and accolades. Alternative Press magazine identifying him as one of current music's three best guitarists of 2008, declared: "Devoto brings a chameleon-like quality to the lead guitar slot in the Matches, as he's equally adept at sunny pop and lo-fi fuzz as he is on theater-punk and loud rockers."
The new songs Bird by Bird deliver are woven with sharp and nimble wordplay, fusing driving, syncopated rhythms and compelling melodies, much like the Matches' music. However, Devoto's material leans toward a more emphatic, more robust rock sound, unabashed guitar glimmer supporting melodic charm and layered harmonies.
Devoto and his writing partner have shaped a sonic blend with echoes of Kings of Leon, Tom Petty, Third Eye Blind, and, yes, the Matches. Emotional, intense, vulnerable, and vivid -- the songs, the vocal delivery, the guitar moves, the instrumental interplay all convey the passion of Bird by Bird's complete and confident music vision.
show more...
