FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 20/02/2025
Matthew Byrne to release new album Stealing Time on April 4th
St. John’s, NL – Since releasing his debut album Ballads in 2010, Matthew Byrne has established himself as one of Canada’s foremost traditional singers. His rich and powerful vocals, refined guitar style, and compelling interpretations of unique traditional songs have made him a favourite of folk audiences at home in Newfoundland and abroad. After a long hiatus from the studio and the road, Byrne is set to release his 4th studio album, Stealing Time.
This project brought Byrne to Yellow Arch Studios in Sheffield, UK, where he teamed up with folk legend Martin Simpson as producer. The album features instrumentation from some of the finest musicians on the English folk scene, including Nancy Kerr, Andy Cutting, and Liz Hanks.
While the album collects material from various corners of the folk world, it is still firmly rooted in the Newfoundland tradition. Stealing Time continues Byrne’s journey through his mother Linda’s vast repertoire, along with songs collected from Newfoundland folk stalwarts Anita Best and Baxter Wareham and lesser-known tradition bearers like Tobias Pearson and Bridie Judge.
Says Byrne, “It was a dream come true bringing these songs to the Martin and the Sheffield crowd. Many were versions originally derived from the English tradition that existed in isolation here in Newfoundland for ages. So for the English folks, they were familiar and brand new at the same time.”
Byrne also showcases two original compositions, including the deeply personal Dream For Me, featuring a breathtaking harmony arrangement by The Ennis Sisters.
Stealing Time is available as CD, vinyl, digital stream, and download on April 4th, 2025.
For additional information, hi-res images, recorded materials, or interview requests, please contact Roger Lockyer at roger@foleymore.com | 709-746-6825