Interview with Steven Matrick, co-founder of the New Colossus Festival, happening this week
Founders of the New Colossus Festival, Steven Matrick, alongside Mike Bell, have created a musical event that has taken the East Village and Lower East Side by storm. Matrick, a longtime Lower East Side resident, described his excitement about the upcoming festival and shared some of the acts he is looking forward to seeing. The festival, which runs for nearly a week in various venues in the area, has become a staple in the NYC music scene.
The inspiration behind starting The New Colossus Festival stemmed from a desire to recreate the spirit of the beloved CMJ festival, which had been missed by many in the community. After a successful trial run in 2018, the festival has grown in size and quality each year. Matrick emphasized the festival’s mission to showcase international talent and welcome artists from all over the world to perform in New York City.
The festival’s name, borrowed from Emma Lazarus’s poem about the Statue of Liberty, reflects the idea of welcoming artists from diverse backgrounds and providing a platform for them to share their music. Matrick emphasized the symbolism behind the festival’s name and its significance in shaping the event’s identity and purpose.
The New Colossus Festival plays a vital role in contributing to NYC’s cultural and artistic landscape, particularly in the indie rock music scene. By hosting the festival in the historic Lower East Side and East Village venues, the festival aims to bring back the spirit of live music to the area. Additionally, the festival serves as a launching pad for many artists who are performing in New York City or the U.S. for the first time.
The festival’s support for artists making their debut in NYC includes offering multiple showcases and opportunities for them to connect with audiences. By providing international bands with two to three shows, the festival allows newcomers to build a presence and gain exposure in the city’s vibrant music scene.
Matrick expressed his excitement for the upcoming festival, highlighting various artists and performances he is looking forward to. From punk rock to indie acts, the festival promises a diverse lineup of talented musicians. Looking back at previous festival moments, Matrick recalled standout performances that left a lasting impression on attendees.
As the festival continues to grow, Matrick’s long-term goals include expanding partnerships and hosting more events throughout the year. By holding the festival in intimate venues and collaborating with various organizations, The New Colossus Festival aims to continue showcasing emerging talent and providing a platform for artists to connect with audiences.
In conclusion, The New Colossus Festival, spearheaded by Steven Matrick and Mike Bell, has become a cornerstone of the East Village and Lower East Side music scene. With a focus on international talent, diverse performances, and a commitment to supporting emerging artists, the festival continues to make a significant impact on NYC’s cultural landscape.