Biography

Matthew Hornell and the Diamond Minds find themselves among the many gems to emerge from the rich and diverse music scene of St. John's, Newfoundland. There is something distinctively different about this folk-roots ensemble that legitimizes their name. The diverse musical backgrounds of the members--some long and some much shorter--lend to a raw, earthy sound accompanied by an honest naivety in Hornell's lyrics that is hard to come by these days.
Instrumentation
Jonathan Bungay - Mandolin,
Lead Guitar
Paddy Byrne - Bass Guitar
Joshua Bourden - Percussion
Matthew Hornell - Vocals, Guitar, Harmonica
Quotes
"Hornell is intimate with his audience...people are dancing and singing along to
his catchy folk songs. Seemingly out of nowhere, Hornell has established not
only a fan base, but a community around his music." The Scope (2009)
"Matthew Hornell & The Diamond Minds are an exciting folk/rock fusion that could
be "the next big thing" in modern Newfoundland music. Their live shows are
incredibly energetic, and they don't mind giving 110 per cent every show they
play." Kevin Kelly - Upon This Rock CHMR-FM (2009)
"...it all comes down to timeless melodies, wonderfully poetic lyrics and
thoughtful delivery. The band has constructed a solid collection of folk-rock
songs that are honest, energetic, smart and always engaging. These are songs
you'll want to play and sing." Robert Hiscock - Product of Newfoundland (2009)
"Fresh on the scene out of St. John’s,
Newfoundland, Matthew Hornell’s songs aim right for your gut, riding on pure
emotion. His well-crafted folk songs draw you in, you’ll be singing along,
feeling at home as in front of the campfire with good food and friends. Sounding
timeless, yet fresh and bold, the songs are executed with whip-crack precision."
Dashiell Brown, The New
Spin (2009)
"The diverse musical backgrounds of the members lend to a raw, earthy sound
accompanied by an honest naivety in Hornell's lyrics that is hard to come by
these days. When Matthew Hornell and the Diamond Minds take their songs on
the road, the rest of the country will be better for it." Justin Brake - The
Telegram (2008)