Shiloh, Forever, the musical alter ego of the talented 25-year-old singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Matthew Roers, has once again mesmerized audiences with his latest release, “The Man After Dark.” A self-proclaimed insomniac, Roers draws inspiration from the tranquil, introspective moments of the night, weaving together laid-back grooves, serene instrumentation, and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with those seeking solace beneath the stars. Hailing from rural Minnesota, Roers’ musical journey reflects his quest for depth and significance, spanning a diverse range of influences from old-school organic folk to classic city pop, culminating in his distinct genre he dubs “sleep rock.”
“The Man After Dark,” a two-song project, serves as a poignant exploration of late-night introspection and vulnerability. Comprising the titular track and the intimate “La Lune,” the project unfolds as a seamless 10-minute continuum of emotive storytelling. Recorded in solitude by Roers in his modest apartment in Dorchester, MA, during a period of nocturnal seclusion, these demos serve as the raw foundation from which the final versions emerged. Inspired by a solitary walk beneath a starry sky in his hometown of Alexandria, MN, “The Man After Dark” delves into the narratives of disconnected lovers seeking solace in the cosmos, transitioning into a wistful ode to the moon.
Roers’ artistic evolution is palpable in “The Man After Dark,” marking a departure from his indie folk roots while retaining the introspective essence that defines his music. Despite this creative expansion, Roers remains the driving force behind the project, assuming roles as songwriter, instrumentalist, and producer. The project’s journey from home demos to polished final versions was facilitated by collaborations with fellow musicians, including Mike Chapin on drums and Eli Torgerson on bass, with close friend Tucker Bickell providing engineering expertise and production assistance.
The genesis of “The Man After Dark” stemmed from a period of personal turmoil for Roers, characterized by a tumultuous breakup and a relentless battle with insomnia. Channeling his inner turmoil into creative expression, Roers embarked on a soul-searching journey that culminated in the creation of this hauntingly beautiful project. His month-long isolation in Dorchester, MA, fueled by sleepless nights and existential contemplation, served as the crucible for the project’s inception, ultimately yielding a collection of songs imbued with a haunting, lullaby-like quality.
Reflecting on his creative process, Roers describes his manic state during the project’s conception, utilizing music as a means of processing his emotions and finding solace amidst chaos. His relentless pursuit of artistic perfection, fueled by a profound sense of dissociation and longing for tranquility, resonates deeply with listeners navigating their own inner struggles.
As Roers continues to navigate his musical journey, he finds himself back in his hometown of Alexandria, MN, investing in his craft and preparing for an exciting new chapter in Brooklyn, NY. Through his introspective musings and soul-stirring melodies, Shiloh, Forever invites listeners to join him on a nocturnal journey of self-discovery, where the darkness of night serves as a canvas for introspection and transformation. With “The Man After Dark,” Roers reaffirms his status as a visionary artist whose music transcends genres, offering solace to weary souls in search of peace amidst the chaos of existence.
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