Noise Pop Preview: Matthew Dear at Public Works
This week is Noise Pop’s 20th Anniversary, and Public Works has prepped their sound system for the performances of several live bands. Headlined by Matthew Dear, the show on February 24 will also include appearances from San Diego-based Tropical Popsicle, and locals Maus Haus and ExRays.
Texas-born Matthew Dear has his roots in Detroit techno since moving to Michigan as a teenager. This is noticeable in the hard-hitting dance music he creates under the aliases Audion, Jabberjaw, and False. As Matthew Dear however, he delves into more pop-oriented territories, drawing influence from artists such as The Talking Heads, Brian Eno, and David Bowie. In 2003, his album Leave Luck to Heaven was seen as a cutting-edge fusion of pop and techno, and in 2007 he began touring with his band (known as Matthew Dear’s Big Hands) after the release of his 2007 full-length, Asa Breed.
Matthew Dear – Dog Days by RBXL
At the core of his productions, Matthew Dear expresses a sense of cold, minimalism that gives him a unique voice. His ear for the unusual came to his advantage when he met his partner, Sam Valenti IV. Together, they co-run the Ann Arbor-based record label Ghostly International and its sister label Spectral Sound. These labels have encouraged the development of music styles between pop and dance music since the early 2000s with releases from notable artists like Dabrye, School of Seven Bells, Mux Mool and Gold Panda, among many others.
Now, Matthew Dear is touring after the release of his latest EP, Headcage, and in preparation for his forthcoming full-length, Beam. Check out what he’s got in store this Friday, February 24, at Public Works.
Matthew Dear plays live at Public Works with support from Maus Haus, Exrays, Tropical Popsicle and a closing DJ set from Mossmoss. Tickets are $16 – $18 and can be purchased here.
