For Australian-born singer-songwriter Matthew James, music has always been a way to process life's highs and lows. Now based in Hamilton, Ontario, and influenced by artists like Matt Maeson, Noah Kahan, Hozier and Sam Fender, he's found his voice in alternative and indie-pop/rock with a folk, singer-songwriter heart, crafting songs that explore themes of resilience and self-discovery. His emotive delivery and raw storytelling create songs that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable, music that lingers long after the final note. "I do my best to create honest, emotionally resonant songs that connect with my audience," says James.

James's debut EP, "Mother I Know" (2026), is out now. The six-track collection brings together his singles so far alongside new tracks, including two live recordings from Toronto's Burdock Music Hall and a stripped piano version of "Monsters", marking his first full project since he started releasing music. "These are the songs that got me here. I wanted to bring them together and give people a couple of new ways in," says James.