In this interview spotlight, I chat with Phil Matthews aka The Village about the music, the memories, dream collaborations and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

What’s something you’d like readers to know about your latest project?

My latest project is to be called The Bells Of St Wystans and is titled after a song on the album which is all about the place where my mother grew up 100 years ago. She was born and raised in a small village called Repton. She died 2 and a half years ago and the song seemed a fitting tribute to her.

How does this project compare with your other release(s)? Was there anything specific you were trying to accomplish?

All my albums to date have been a collection of songs reflecting my thoughts over the period of time since the previous one. There is no specific theme to the songs as, on this occasion, they include the fun story of Jerome the Gnome, songs referencing my child with a song fittingly titled Childhood, and songs that concern themselves with the modern world.

What motivates you to create music?

I have always made music  and written songs since I was 14. It is something that I feel compelled to do whether there is anyone else to hear them or not. Broadcasting figures do suggest that there are others who listen and like however.

What’s one of your first or most powerful music memories? Did that play any role in driving you to create?

I helped out, in a backstage capacity with a junior school show which featured four of my classmates miming to the Beatles version of Twist and Shout, which was a big song at the time. Even though none of them could play I was so excited that what I saw I nagged at my parents until they got me a guitar.

If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why? If it’s an indie/DIY artist, please include a link so readers can check them out.

I have always been a huge fan of the Beatles, along with an obscure British band named Stackridge. Their leader, James Warren, went on to form the Korgis and wrote and recorded Everybody’s Got To Learn Sometime. My answer would have to be John Lennon, or Paul McCartney and James Warren. I know James a little bit but have never plucked up the courage to suggest the idea.

What was the last song you listened to? And who is one of your favorite all-time bands/artists?

The last song that I listened to was either One Of These Days I Am Going To Cut You Into Little Pieces by Pink Floyd, or Return Of The Giant Hogweed by Genesis (apparently there are big problems throughout the countryside because of real Giant Hogweed  – so be warned. The four bands I have mentioned in the last two answers would probably be my favourites.

Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?

I have a website www.thevillage.me.uk you can find everything that you wanted to know about me there – and probably stuff you didn’t, while all my music is available to download ON MY Bandcamp page thevillage2.bandcamp.com.

I really appreciate Your time. Anything else before we sign off?

To anyone reading this I would advise  you to make music because you feel the need and desire to rather than for money.