‘Chosen Sun’ is the product of four years of hard work, growth and change. It began after a post-pandemic showcase the helped fund the project, and has evolved into my most ambitious musical undertaking to date. It offers a reflection on queer survival – both through history and my personal experience. It looks at my family, my queer community, the road trips, losses, and celebrations that have shaped me. It’s about finding your own path and offers a journey forward, towards change.
The album was written on the piano and brought to life with the incredible support of my band (Brad Pedwell, Mikey Chamzuk and Ian Malinski) and producer/engineer Matt Roach. Their talent and collaboration were instrumental in shaping the sound of ‘Chosen Sun’ into something I’m incredibly proud of.
This stunning album cover was shot by Cale Tian (Photography) who also worked with me on the artwork for each single leading up to release. We felt this photo perfectly captured the essence of ‘Chosen Sun’.
To celebrate the release, we’ll be throwing a record release concert on January 24th, 2025, at The Roxy – an iconic venue that’s been a huge part of my journey.
Here’s the tracklist for Chosen Sun:
1) Sungold
2) Standing in the Way of Love
3) A-List
4) The Rhythm
5) Different Dreams
6) The Other Side
7) Hundreds or Fives
8) Paid for the Hit
9) Washington
10) Rainbow Tree
Full Album Credits:
The Band:
Matthew Presidente: Vocals, Grand & Upright piano, Fender Rhodes, Keyboards, Synths
Brad Pedwell: Electric & Acoustic Guitars, Vocals
Ian Malinski: Bass
Mikey Chamzuk: Drums
Special guests:
Cale Tian: Vocals (1, 10)
Tara C Taylor: Vocals (5)
Byron Hanson: Vocals (6, 8), Cello (6)
Matt Roach: Guitars (5, 7)
Mike WT Allen: Saxaphones (8, 9)
Leo D. E. Johnson: Vocals (10)
Charles Emery: Vocals (8, 9)
Matt Katz: Horn Arrangement (8)
Dann Feltrin: Electric Guitar (10)
Production:
Written by Matthew Presidente w/ Jordan Esau (2), Brad Pedwell (8)
Recorded at Hipposonic Studio, Rain City Recorders & Suna Studios Vancouver
Recorded by Liam Moes (Hipposonic) and Matt Roach (Rain City Recorders)
Produced by Matthew Presidente & Matt Roach
Mixed by Matt Roach (except 4 mixed by Liam Moes)
Mastered by Brock McFarlance, CPS Mastering
Supported by Creative BC and the Province of British Columbia