Matt Hayward

Wishbone is an alternative rock band from Dublin, Ireland. Drawing influence from the blues of the 60s, classic rock of the 70s and alternative/metal bands of the 90s, they counter driving hard rock rhythms with mellow acoustics, and a keen sense of melody.
The band was formed in the summer of 2008, by singer Matt Hayward & guitarist Ivan Byrne, who were both looking to move on from previous projects. Hayward had previously fronted alternative rock bands Honeycomb and Garden Blue; the former releasing the single "I Slip Away" in 2007, and the latter releasing the album "Outside In", featuring multi-platinum selling artist Edie Brickell, of Edie Brickell & New Bohemians, and Fire Ants/Malfunkshun guitarist Kevin Wood. After the recording, the members parted on good terms.
Byrne had previously played bass in blues rock outfit Outbreed, and in early 2009 Wishbone recruited former Outbreed guitarist Niall Feeney on bass guitar, the re-united bandmates reversing the roles they had occupied in their previous band.
Drummer Joe Johnston was also added to the line-up in 2009, replacing former drummer Nathan Ogle, who returned to his native Canada, the foursome are currently touring in promotion of their debut album, "Butterfly".
Featuring a blend of heavy, guitar-based grooves, and quirky acoustic melodies, embellished by Byrne's bluesy guitar solos, and Hayward's deeply metaphoric and poetic lyrics, "Butterfly" was released April 2009, through Digital Revolution Records. The band are currently touring to promote the albums release, while they also plan to record a follow up EP by the end of 2009.
With a full-length album under their belt, and a second release firmly in the making - all within a few months of the bands conception - the band are certainly not lacking in drive, enthusiasm or commitment. Despite their work ethic, however, the members are known to exhibit an oddball sense of humor, (as is evident in their home videos); featuring free Hallowe'en performances, homages to a rescued dog, and late night deer-spotting sessions in the Wicklow Mountains.
Thus far, Wishbone have been well received by fans and peers alike, and all concerned look forward to a long and productive career for the Dublin-based band.
DISCOGRAPHY:
- I SLIP AWAY (2007) *SINGLE
- TWINE (2007) *SINGLE
- OUTSIDE IN (2008) *ALBUM
- BUTTERFLY (2009) *ALBUM
WISHBONE:
"...Wishbone are a band with enough originality and inventiveness of their own to make a mark"
"...they have crafted a signature sound of their own" McC Reviews
"...some trashing grooves that you could really get your teeth into!" Musicreveiw
GARDEN BLUE:
"... Deep tones and fantastic lyrics...they are on to something big…." Trevor Halpin<