About Matt
Around the time he learned to walk, Matt Poynter showed a precocious and compelling talent for rhythm and an innate love for music. A native of the St. Petersburg, Florida area, Matt knew well in his heart that he would eventually fulfill and develop his childhood passion into the multi-skilled drummer that he has become.
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Matt’s eclectic and powerful talents precede him, and he is a true chameleon behind the drums, evidenced by the array of musical variety that pulls him in and creates his highly in-demand reputation. As he progresses, he grows in talent, enthusiasm and personal commitment to his craft. His band, The Hip Abduction, has taken him across the North American continent, as the group grows in popularity and increases its presence at some of the nation’s most unique and desirable venues.
Although he began playing piano at the age of five, it was not until he was 15 that he began playing the drums, discovering and honing his magic. As an open and impassioned musician, Matt considers himself a continual student, influenced by many musical mentors along his path. His studies include Afro-Cuban drumming with Glenn Meyer, Dr. Patrick Hernly, and renowned Funk/New Orleans drummer, Stanton Moore.
Matt has shared the stage with well known artist like Trey Anastasio, Umphrey’s McGee, 311, The Dirty Heads, Widespread Panic, Rebelution, Lettuce, Primus, George Porter Jr. (The Meters), Thievery Corporation, Moon Taxi, and Galactic.
The Hip Abduction
The Hip Abduction is an afro-pop/indie rock band hailing from St. Petersburg, Fl. The sextet places heavy emphasis on African music, mixed with dub-reggae bass lines and funky afro-beat percussion, making their high energy performances stand out on festival lineups nationwide. In 2013, The Hip Abduction released a self-titled debut album which received nationwide attention and gained a top 5 spot on the Billboard reggae charts. THA's album, Gold Under The Glow, was released in 2016, and was produced by Dabney Morris (Wild Cub). The album features tracks "Come Alive," which can be heard on Sirius Xm radio, and "Before We Lose Our Minds," the album's first single.
"Matt Poynter is a go-getter. He’s not afraid to lay it out on the line to do what he’s always wanted to do. His story starts with him as a teenager trying to figure out how to make a career in music and now tells a completely different story of a successful, touring drummer with major credits and live experiences that some would die for. While he may not be a household name yet, keep your eyes peeled for Matt as he’s continuously working his way up the ranks as one the rising stars in the drumming world." |
Highlights
- The Hip Abduction 2013 self-titled album debuted at #5 on the Billboard charts
- Performance at Hulaween Music Festival 2015 was broadcast live on Sirius XM Jam On. Live performances of “Come Alive” and “Sexual Healing” (Marvin Gaye cover) currently in rotation.
- Matt, and THA, have toured alongside acts such as The Dirty Heads, Galactic, Nahko And Medicine For The People, Passafire, Twiddle, Zac Deputy, and The Expendables.
- THA has performed at well known festivals such as Shaky Knees, Jam Cruise, Sweetwater 420, California Roots, Hulaween, Floyd Fest, PeachFest and The Harvest Jazz Fest in New Brunswick.
Interviews
Interview with The Drummer's Resource Podcast - 3/2/2018
Interview with The Lil Drummer Girl Podcast - 11/18/2016
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