Matt Clarke and Leila Harrison are MADISEN: A musical powerhouse that delivers strong original songs laced with catchy hooks, beautiful melodies, and biting lyrics, all conveyed with a passion and honesty that cuts straight to the soul. The duo’s brand of “folk rock” seamlessly blends their own styles with their library of influences, creating a sound that is wonderfully diverse and yet strikingly collected and focused.
The duo’s debut recording, “Songs From the Seventh Floor EP,” is an honest, powerful, beautiful concentration of songs that capture their sound and energy marvelously. In early 2004, Madisen enlisted producer, engineer and mixer Jared Kuemper (Sheryl Crow, Tegan & Sara) to help them deliver the goods, and the end result is stunning. Described as “charming, airy and melodic,” their “lush, lovely tunes” are conveyed thrillingly by Leila’s powerful, compelling voice, and Matt’s stirring vocals and driving guitar. Leila’s voice has been described as, “rich and melodic, coming across as sexy and unmannered - not an easy feat, and indicative of an unselfconscious delivery.” The debut disc has grabbed them notable attention from the industry resulting in radio play, favorable reviews, and television appearances.
On stage, the duo is even more convincing. Whether with the band or stripped down and acoustic, their shows are consistently emotional, moving, and unforgettable. With a growing fan base across western Canada, and a handful of sold out shows under their belt, their presence on the stage is hard to ignore.
Originally from Calgary, Alberta and now based in Vancouver BC, the two made the move west together in 2002 and began officially playing together in 2003. Their long standing romantic involvement as well as their experience and love for the stage and screen produce more fuel for the fire of their musical partnership. Harrison and Clarke are showing no signs of slowing down, but rather a growth and momentum that gives an era of endless possibilities. Each new song takes them deeper and deeper into their sound, revealing a compelling musical personality that is MADISEN.
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