The Matchsellers

OFor more than a decade, The Matchsellers have infused traditional roots music with a modern, art-house twist. From outer-space operas to bluegrass bookclubs and electronic banjo music mixed with dystopian podcasts, the Matchsellers grapple with ideas of tradition, modernity and the Midwestern identity in fiery, beautiful and sometimes hilarious ways.

Hailing from Kansas City, The Matchsellers’ songs are a rich tapestry of storytelling, humor, and sentimentality, offering a fresh take on timeless themes. Top notch harmonies, musicianship and idiosyncratic song & stagecraft have made the group one of the most original and sought-after acoustic groups in the Midwest and beyond.

Core members Andrew Morris (guitar) and Julie Bates (fiddle) founded the band in Germany in 2013, where they met while working as English
teachers. Since then, they have crafted a signature style and live show that leaves spectators laughing, dancing, crying, and wondering what could possibly happen next. Unique albums like the 2018
space opera Bluegrastronauts, the acoustic/electronic album One Fine Sweet and Sunny Day (2020), The Wishful Thinkers’ Hall of Fame (2022) & Live at the Warehouse (2024) have garnered The Matchsellers critical acclaim and a dedicated following across the country & beyond.

Their current line-up features banjoist and puppeteer Matthew Hawkins, whose aggressive banjo style harkens back to the first and second generation playing of Lamar Grier, Butch Robins, Don Reno and Raymond Fairchild. His talents as a professional puppet designer and performer are beginning to work their way into the Matchsellers show to great effect. The group is rounded out with Dan Perez on Bass. Perez’s Venezuelan heritage as well as his vast knowledge of diverse music styles, adds an impeccable sense of groove and timing to the unit. The Matchsellers’ 6th full length record Psychobiography is due out in 2025.