“She has probably the purest voice I have heard and at times it sent shivers up and down my spine” BBC
With a pure silken voice and lyrics that inspire and captivate, Martha Tilston has developed a successful musical career with a large and loyal following worldwide.
She has played on some of the world’s most prestigious stages and festivals, recorded and released several critically acclaimed albums, gained a nomination for BBC best newcomer, appeared as a guest vocalist for Zero 7, toured internationally and worked with the some of the world’s most inspiring musicians.
The past few years have seen Martha venture in to the world of film making, gaining nominations for best arts film for The Clifftop Sessions and recently releasing her first feature film (with an accompanying Soundtrack Album) - The Tape - which is garnering much praise and excitement.
“Redolent of early Kate Bush, soulful vocals that soar around, an understated masterpiece’” Acoustic Magazine
“She has the power to draw an audience into her world, leaving all those present with a smile, and a few issues to ponder, too.” Time Out
A Liitle Bit More About Martha…
Fresh out of college Martha happened across the Small World stage with her duo, Mouse; they put her on at midnight and let her play until dawn. She then travelled round the country with the lantern-lit touring stage, learning her craft and gaining a faithful underground fan-base.
Martha has constantly experimented with her musical parameters. From folk songs she had know since childhood to piano ballards to electronica and trip-hop. With her longtime collaborators and musicians Matt Tweed and Matt Kelly, among others they entwine raw vocals, sparkling melodies and thought- provoking lyrics with filmic movements and earthy baselines. To see them live is to connect with longed-for parts of ourselves...
“Martha Tilston has carved her niche with sharp, original songs that dissect the modern world. It is an engrossing set.. She captures both the harshness and enchantment of life, with the salt of sea air almost palpable.” The Guardian
“Sit down with a cup of chai tea and let her silky voice wash over you.” The Independent
About the Band: The Woods
Matt Tweed, Matthew Kelly, Camilo Tirado and Tim Cotterell have created and worked with Martha for many years now. The Band is a fluid and collaborative connection with core members like the wonderful Matt Tweed and Matthew Kelly holding the frame while others like Robin Tyndale, Cate Ferris, Nathan Ball and John Mcneil weaving in and out of projects and tours. Sometimes it’s the whole eight piece with string section, tabla, bass, bouzouki and harmony singers, while at other times it is just Martha on stage with a guitar, a spotlight, a piano and her songs. The Woods have recorded, written and toured the world together and have had many an adventure.
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Matt Tweed
Bass, Bouzouki
Matt Tweed is a rare and wonderful musician, producer, collaborator, author, illustrator, pirate games creator, sideways thinker, friend and Martha’s left hand man (and also the person most likely to crack Martha up on stage). -
Matthew Kelly
Violin / Viola, Electric guitar, Percusin, Tambaflop (tambourine+ flipflop+ gaffer tape)
Matt Kelly is an immensely talented musician, film & TV composer, general creative soul and a pleasure to be around. -
Camilo Tirado
Percussion, Tabla
A sensitive and talented player and lovely soul.