When many musicians talk about their influences, they cite acts from a generation ago. Not too many list the music of old time tent revivals and minstrel shows. That’s what makes Matt Ray and Those Damn Horses unique. Their sound goes way back.

On this edition of Minnesota Arts on the Road, we’ll listen to a live concert from the Embarrass, MN-based group, and we’ll ask Matt what got him interested in old-time string music.

Matt is a self-taught musician. He was surrounded by music growing up. Both Matt’s father and mother were active musicians, and Matt was often found sleeping in guitar cases or behind drum sets as a young child.

The group has established a passionate, and rowdy, fan-base throughout the Northland.
Minnesota Arts on the Road is a production of Pioneer 90.1, Thief River Falls, made possible by the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. Recording engineer is Ben Kosharek. Producer is Mark Johnson.