Monica Matthews: Press
Disorientingly haunting renditions of ancient Christian hymns and orginal song, October 5, 2007
By M. Barker "God bless us all" (United States) - See all my reviews
One of the most astonishing cd's ever made, almost completely neglected by the mainstream, and pure genius in artistry and substance. This American and Greek Orthodox artist from the South has created an achingly intimate debut cd. It is worth buying just to hear the song she wrote called passions one time! The Greek Orthodox hymns are some how transformed into a richer than Enya stylizations that reverberate to your core. On the professional musicianship side, she was nominated for a grammy in 2003, has been recorded with Lynyrd Skynrd and many others. Her prior gospel experience was with the Dixie Hummingbirds. This is a real musician, poet, and astonishing example of a 2000 year old Greek Orthodox faith in Christ. Yet it is also an album for everyone.
Move over Sarah Brightman and Enya, and make room for Monica Matthews...
A little bit of opera, a little bit of Enya, a little bit of Enigma...Monica Matthews crosses over genre lines to bring you something like you've never heard before.
This stirring debut album consists of newly arranged Orthodox Liturgical Hymns and two emotionally charged original pieces written by Matthews. Highly acclaimed Producer Trammell Starks (responsible for such Billboard chart-topping hits as Orinoco Flow- The Music Of Enya) has teemed up with Matthews to bring forth this intriguing, haunting, masterful collection of tunes based on various liturgical texts and Orthodox prayers. The album also features a performance by World Flautist, Pedro Eustache of "The Passion" soundtrack.
Beautifully sung in Greek and English.
Peter J. Gillquist-
St. Romanos Records
Truly astounding! The hymns are beautifully represented in a truly authentic way...
Amazing talent!!
George Veras, Exec Prod Yanni Live at Acropolis - Veras Communications,Inc. (Jan, 2005)
Local talent to release debut album in conjunction with Athens Games...
Amazingly beautiful voice with an ability to transport any listener back to their own soul...
R. Berke - Sony Int'l (Feb, 2005)
I really enjoyed the music I heard on the website.... tell me how to pay for the CD and get you to autograph it to me?
You are a beautiful and talented woman and I wish you all the success in the world. May God bless you and your family always.
Elaine Daniels.
(Jul 15, 2006)
"You are a blessing...never stop using your gift..."
- Archbishop Iaokovos (Jun, 2004)
This is Reed Hoffman just letting you know that my guest on this week's edition of the Whistle Stop will be Monica Matthews. Monica is one of the most unique artists we have here at Depot Radio, as her music consists mostly of ancient Greek hymns to which she has added some very diverse musical arrangements, ranging from the orchestral to techno. You'll get to hear about her multi-cultural family, her unique performances, and how she has found that this music has effected people. It's a very fascinating interview with some very interesting music, so be sure to catch the show this Sunday, August 13, at 4:00 P.M. Central Time.
I love the CD!! Your voice is angelic!
I always believed in her talent!!!
Reviewer: Chris Papadopoulos
I grew up with Monica as a childhood friend in the same class,and always supported her talent.As a fellow American born Greek,I am proud to hear our hymns in a modern text.Her voice and compositions are amazing.This cd will touch your heart and soul,and bring elements of peace to your life.I highly suggest adding this cd to your musical library.This also makes a great, unique gift to share with others!!!
Has a beautiful voice
Reviewer: Carol Baril
Great vocals and love the instrumentation behind the vocals. I don't speak Greek but it doesn't matter since the mood of this music just puts one on a cloud, lifing them to a higher spiritual place. Great for listening to in the car. Orthodox Christians will recognize these songs from the Liturgy.
Inspiring and Uplifting
Reviewer: Gus Drugas
Windows by Monica Matthews is a must for all music collections. Monica is angel on heaven as she sings these beautiful hymns and praises of God. Her voice is very inspirational and leaves you in complete peace by the end of the CD. I highly suggest this CD for all!!
This CD is Breathtaking!
Reviewer: Pastor Timothy Rollins a.k.a "daHoodRev!"
Monica's CD is Breathtaking! It is like taking a mystical journey to a far away place without ever leaving your home. I recommend that when listening to this CD... Listen closely. You will connect to a world unknown. Monica...WORLDWIDE SUCCESS on this one! - Pastor Timothy Rollins . . . . *Victorious! Outreach Ministries International* ...www.dahoodrev.com
- CDBaby Reviews (Oct 4, 2006)
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(Dec 19, 2006)
Going by the previous trends this show is expected to draw huge crowds again this year. So if you are coming remember to book your tickets well in advance. Go for online booking to save time and efforts.
The concert previously featured performances by names like Lynyrd Skynyrd, Styx, Bad Company, Journey, REO Speed wagon, Edgar Winter, Joe Stark, Derek St. Holmes Monica Matthews, John Waite, and Mark Farner. The show was hosted by comedian Drew Carey. Drew, who looked extra thin that day, delivered amusing monologues throughout the show. His comments were given strong approvals by the audience.
The concert started with a March and song sequence by Monica Matthews. She gave out performance on the song “The Star Spangled Banner”. Dressed in red, white and blue stars from her tip to toe, Monica was the first one for whom the chant of ‘USA, USA’ was started. After that it never faded.
Robert Summers Potterton III to perform with Monica Matthews on Summer Tour
Published on 4/2/2007
By RSP3 Productions
Acclaimed composer and keyboardist, Robert Summers Potterton III, will be performing at least two concerts with Grammy-nominated vocalist, Monica Matthews, as part of his summer tour. Hailing from Atlanta, Monica is expected to perform at the Veteran's Auditorium in Coventry, CT, and Church for All Nations in New York City. Her debut CD, "Windows" will be sold at both concerts, as well as Robert's upcoming release, "Heavenward". The concert in Coventry will feature a number of local musicians on percussion and ethnic instruments, while the NYC performance will feature Monica, accompanied by Robert on keyboards. As soon as tour dates are set, they will be published on the official tour site, www.thedualingkeyboardists.com, and tickets will go on sale. For more information, please send an email to 'admin@thedualingkeyboardists.com'.
"Windows" Makes Best Seller List!!