New Jersey Stage Issue 61 | Page 7

the artist. The first seven tracks or so are from a period in which he aimed for a much harder, full band rock and roll sound. The last seven show his songwriting maturing, changing, moving towards more of a rootsy, Americana type sound. Considering you are far more likely to see him perform as a solo artist, the change makes perfect sense. “I’m not the same person I was when I started this album,” said Williamsboy. “I’ve learned a lot, I’ve lost a lot, but I’ve also gained a lot as well. Living takes a while to understand, and my hope is that somewhere within the songs I’ve put together others can find wisdom, solace, help, comfort, laughter, and a general sense that no matter how alone you think you are, you’re not.” Williams bounced around shore towns in New Jersey while grow- ing up, spending time in Ocean, Cape May, and Atlantic County. Some were rough neighborhoods and his family never had much money. His father abandoned them when Matt was very young. Listen to “Dead Beyond The Day” by Williamsboy NJ STAGE - ISSUE 61 INDEX NEXT ARTICLE 7