Album Notes

Matt Burke - Vocals / Acoustic Guitar

Australian Singer / Songwriter, Matt Burke touches and awakens an ‘awareness’ deep down in every ear that opens and heart that is ready to listen.

Burke’s powerful and moving music result from self turmoil, tragedy, loss, exploration and finally triumph over despair. The audience is compelled to complete this journey with him and still want more!

Passion, dedication, team work and charisma are defined by Matt Burke and his ‘Acoustic Friends’ – Acoustic guitar, Percussion/Drums, Bass guitar, Female and male vocals plus cello and violin, compile this dynamic and close-knit team of professional musicians from most corners of the globe.

Celebrated success in 2006 at various city festivals and concerts in ancient castles in Austria, plus a ‘packed’ Showcase Presentation in Salzburg’s premier live music venue, the ROCKHOUSE, propel this young and energetic team with growing momentum . . .

Matt’s second album ‘LIVE at the ROCKHOUSE’ was released on Friday May 4.

Matt Burke and Acoustic Friends pursue further challenges and hungrier audiences in 2007.

The 'Acoustic Friends' Band Members:


Anna Martin-Scrase - Cello

Anna was born in Vermont, USA but has integrated well into the ‘Salzburg Szene’ since the age of 16.
A prized student of the ‘Classical’ University Mozarteum Salzburg , she performs in various chamber ensembles and orchestras and also gives solo concerts throughout Europe and America.
She is a founding member of ‘Acoustic Friends’ and has always been very generous with her time. Not always a ‘morning person’ but very flexible in musical style and she even made the switch to Electric Cello!
Thank you Anna for bringing a warmth and beauty to every performance. You shine :-)

Wolfgang Grubmüller - Bass

The 'veteran' of the team and a regular on the Rockhouse stage with local band, 'Blues Unlimited’. Wolfgang has well over 30 years ‘service to the back-line’. His bass rhythms are often syncopated with his cries of joy and excitement on the stage!
Wolfi’s experience, guidance and honesty grounds and motivates the complete band. He’s known affectionately as 'Vati', (being my Father-in-law) and he’s often a ‘trusty taxi driver’ for the others. He’s a talented, energetic musician, a valuable asset to the band and a trusted friend.
Danke Vati.

Wolfgang Höllerer - Percussion / Vocals

Not only well studied (“American Institute of Music”, Vienna & „Anton Bruckner Konservatorium“, Linz), Wolf is one of the hardest working musicians I know!
Drum lessons, performances, workshops and co-authoring a drum book ’Rudimental Secrets’ left little time for rehearsals and touring but he made it work!
Dedicated and extremely talented, Wolf brings fun, energy and ‘groove’ to the team.
Thanks mate, it is always a pleasure to work together.
www.wolf-drums.com

Verena Niederberger - Vocals

Verena brings an innocence, freshness and power to the team. We met some years ago in Unken, a neighbouring village to Lofer. We struck up a friendship due to our common interest in music and particularly performance. Her talent is sure to take her places! On stage, she possesses a strength and calmness way beyond her years and she is a very sought after live performer for obvious reasons.
Thank you Verena for your dedication, excitement and live ‘vibrance’!

David Varela - Violin

I was fortunate enough to meet David between his major solo classical performances. He had the time and more importantly he really connected with my music. In a relatively short time he came up to speed with the program and was quickly absorbed as a new ‘Acoustic Friend’. I’m so glad he ‘Crossed Over’ to our musical realm as his talents have produced outstanding results.
As promised, I will buy the ‘Coronas’ at your hometown beach in Mexico when I visit. Salud!

Heidi 'Rusty' Vogl - Vocals

A special welcome to Heidi as she joins us once again on the stage. Heidi sung brilliantly on my first album 'truth' and we are all excited by her power and presence on the stage.
She is also the driving force in our 'party band formation' - JUMP!
We look forward to many amazing concerts in the future . . .
Thanks Rusty :-) http://www.heidivogl.de