By Cole MacKinnon | January 2012

Vancouver roots-rockers The Matinee have made a strong work ethic and an unwavering devotion to their craft start to really pay off with a third-place finish in the 2011 Peak Performance Project and a recent signing with Simkin Artist Management.

Vancouver View chatted recently with lead guitarist Matthew Rose about what keeps the band doing what they love…

Vancouver View: What did the whole Peak Performance Project experience mean to you guys?

Matthew Rose: We learned so much! The week of boot camp was incredibly intense. There was a lot to take in and a ton of awesome information was shared. From the live performances to meeting the bands and exchanging stories…I can’t say enough about the opportunity.

VV: How tight are the bonds between your band members?

MR: We all went to high school together and we’ve played together in assorted groups for many years. I’d say that as friends and musicians, we’re as close now as we’ve ever been. We’re starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel, too—which helps! (Laughs)

VV: How important is it for a band to keep on pushing in today’s musical climate?

MR: It’s really important. I think it’s safe to say we’ve paid some dues. It’s now at the point where The Matinee is keeping each of us really busy. Opportunities are presenting themselves, but we know we need to be as focused and hard working as ever.

VV: Is there a new release in the works for 2012?

MR: Yeah, we’re just in the process of picking a producer right now. We’re aiming to have the album finished for spring 2012, then we’re going to hit the road, play the festival circuit, et cetera. The plan is to work our butts off touring this record and try to spread the word as much as possible.

To find out more about The Matinee and where they’re headed in the coming months, check out thematineemusic.com