Random Questions with... Matt Epp

Singer/songwriter Matt Epp’s co-write with The 2014 JUNO Awards Broadcast co-host Serena Ryder helped to earn her well-deserved JUNO nod for Songwriter of the Year. The song "When You Know" appears on Epp’s latest album, Learning to Lose Control, which also features his backing band The Amorian Assembly, along with Imaginary Cities’ Marti Sarbit on several tracks. The making of the 12-track record started in Spain, where Epp’s Amorian Assembly bandmate resides, but was completed in Hollywood at the helm of producer Jamie Candiloro (Ryan Adams, R.E.M., Willie Nelson). This is Epp’s second release with The Amorian Assembly; he last teamed up with the band for 2011’s At Dawn, which also featured collaborations with JUNO-winning/nominated artists Rose Cousins and Bahamas. You can catch Epp share his songs and stories at the JUNO Songwriters' Circle on March 30 at the Burton Cummings Theatre.

What was the first tape, vinyl, or CD you bought?
The first thing that I can remember buying is Liquid Swords by Rza.

Favourite Old Dutch flavour?
All Dressed.

Was there a concert that changed your life and how?
Bob Dylan at the Austin City Limits Music Festival…Watching him, I realized how much you can actually say in your songs and your performance without feeling stifled or that you have to be politically correct. You can communicate everything you could ever want to through your songs. I feel that that’s given me a lot of freedom.

What were your thoughts when you found out that your song was nominated for a JUNO?
My first reaction was that I didn’t know how that worked because it’s her nomination, but it’s for our song. I was so happy for the song to get more momentum, because I really love that song. I was excited that I didn’t have the pressure of having the actual attention on me – it’s more on the song, which is how it should be. It’s the best thing that could have happened.  

What will you be wearing to the JUNOS?
Do I have to wear clothes?