Forest Swords

Experimental Electronic Music Project

Forest Swords, the stage name of English music producer and artist Matthew Barnes, is known for his experimental music that blends elements of dub, ambient, and electronic styles. Emerging in the late 2000s, Forest Swords' sound is characterized by its use of reverb-laden guitar work, sampled beats, and atmospheric soundscapes. Barnes' debut release, "Dagger Paths EP," received critical acclaim upon its release in 2010, with Pitchfork awarding it their "Best New Music" designation and it being shortlisted for The Guardian's first album award. Following this success, Forest Swords continued to evolve his sound with subsequent releases such as the full-length album "Engravings" in 2013 and "Compassion" in 2017. The latter further cemented his reputation for crafting hauntingly beautiful compositions that are both meditative and emotionally resonant. In addition to his studio albums, Forest Swords has also contributed to the esteemed DJ-Kicks mix series, showcasing his curatorial skills alongside his production talents. His work often explores themes of nature, decay, and the passage of time, resonating with listeners through its cinematic and immersive qualities.