Storytelling through song is a fundamental duty of traditional music and Matthew Byrne does this brilliantly with his latest recording, “Horizon Lines.” Byrne was born into a family of Newfoundland music makers and this newest collection of traditional material explores a unique repertoire of songs from both sides of the Atlantic continuing Byrne’s journey through his musical lineage. This tradition thrives on the song – the weaving of a great story with a beautiful melody – and Byrne’s music reminds us how satisfying traditional songs can be when stripped down to these basic elements. Since bursting on to the trad scene in 2010 with his debut recording, “Ballads,” Matthew has swiftly earned his place as one of Canada’s most authentic and vital traditional voices backed by his masterful guitar playing. Byrne’s second solo CD “Hearts & Heroes” won “Traditional Album of the Year” at the 2015 Canadian Folk Music Awards. “Horizon Lines” – a collection of traditional material from both sides of the Atlantic that continues Byrne’s journey through his own unique musical lineage, won Traditional Recording of the Year at the 2018 Canadian Folk Music Awards. Having received this distinction for a second time, Matthew Byrne continues to establish himself as one of today’s most authentic and vital traditional voices.