M. Ward

The phrase “always a bridesmaid but never a bride” is overused, but we can’t resist in the case of M. Ward. The Portland singer/songwriter has appeared on Austin City Limits no less than three times as a guest (with Norah Jones, Bright Eyes and Spoon), and now is the time to break the string.

The man known as Matthew Stephen Ward to his parents grew up listening to country, gospel and classical music, and first came to attention with the California band Rodriguez before going solo. Combining his country/folk/blues roots with the indie rock sound he explored with Rodriguez, Ward began a distinctive solo career that encompasses jazzy pop melodies, atmospheric textures and guitar technique reminiscent of John Fahey. Records like The Transfiguration of Vincent, Transistor Radio and Post-War have climbed a mountain of critical acclaim. After taking a detour to form the group She & Him with actress Zooey Deschanel, Ward this year released the masterful Hold Time and celebrates its success with his own headlining appearance on the ACL stage.