The Narcissist Cookbook, led by Matt Johnston, is a music band that stands out for its originality and truthfulness. This band blends blues, rock, and a raw, authentic style that connects deeply with listeners.
Matt Johnston grew up on the beautiful island of Arran in Scotland, where the rich sounds of American blues and country rock were part of everyday life. However, a Green Day album at age 13 sparked Matt's love for music. This wasn't just any interest in music; it was a desire to create something different that broke the rules.
Self-taught and influenced by punk music's rebellious nature, Matt started the musical journey with his band. They played in bars, on the streets, and anywhere they could. This was a challenging path. The band went through tough times, including losing their voice for nine months and struggling with substance abuse. But these challenges led to something new and exciting – The Narcissist Cookbook.
The Narcissist Cookbook isn't just a band. It's a mix of spoken word, storytelling, and music. The guitar isn't just for playing tunes; it's a tool to make the words come alive. This unique style came from Matt's experiences and the desire to do something different in music.
The band's third album, "This Is How We Get Better," was a big moment. It brought the band into the limelight and gained them fans worldwide. It wasn't just the music that people loved but the honesty and courage in the lyrics. Matt's songs talk about real, tough topics many can relate to.
The band has big plans. They're set to release a 40-minute compilation album, which includes a much-anticipated song, "Courtney (Director's Cut)." Plus, they're working on a new album called "MYTH." This album is set to explore themes like fairytales and a haunted children's book-on-tape.
When describing "The Narcissist Cookbook," words like honest, confrontational, vibrant, and empowering come up often. Embracing their identity, Matt brings a unique mix of acoustic punk, folk storytelling, and theatrical performance to their music. This distinctive style has become a source of strength and inspiration for many.
The band's recent UK tour was a huge success. Fans filled venues to the brim. Matt's candid approach to songwriting, which includes themes like mental health and non-monogamy, has profoundly impacted a diverse audience.
Matt's journey with "The Narcissist Cookbook" is a story of determination and independence. They've succeeded on their terms without a manager or a record label. Each of their albums pushes creative boundaries, showing their commitment to trying new things in music,
Matt's message to fans is about being true to oneself. He encourages people to face their fears and be open about who they are. Matt believes healing comes from being honest and not hiding away. The Narcissist Cookbook also supports important causes, like the transgender community. They've helped raise money for TransLifeline, showing their commitment to helping others.
The Narcissist Cookbook is more than just a band. It's a symbol of being true to yourself and embracing your unique path in life. Matt Johnston's fusion of blues, rock, and genuine storytelling has created a special place in music. The Narcissist Cookbook invites us to listen, reflect, and find our truth in the notes and words of their songs.
