Matt and Shannon Heaton pair original songs with traditional Irish flute and guitar numbers. An unusual blend of material? Sure. But a natural one for this Boston-based husband-and-wife pair, who has retained trad music chops while becoming involved in the rich Boston acoustic music scene. Call it Irish Americana, or modern Celtic music—Matt and Shannon's shows feature stunning musicianship, an easy rapport with audiences, and a selection of music you won't hear anywhere else.

Acoustic Guitar magazine summed it all up: "Matt nails it all down with his highly textured guitar playing." His rhythmic integrity and inventive harmonic ideas provide a rich framework for Shannon's timeless, evocative lyrics—and her stunning Irish flute playing. By bringing in wood flute riffs and backing vocal parts that blend with agile guitar lines, the Heatons offer a big, layered, modern sound.

On their latest release, "Blue Skies Above" (March 2006), the Heatons offer a seamless blend of traditional and original music, adding occasional electric guitar, drums, fiddle, banjo, and accordion whenever tracks called for it. Shannon explains, "We never sought to make the old world new—we just went with what was in our heads and hearts. We have some guest musicians on the CD, but made sure that every track on the record could be recreated live, with just the two of us.”

"Matt and Shannon Heaton combine lilt and contemporary sensibility, and sidestep the expected treble timbre of Irish music... Their songs are standouts." Sing Out! Magazine

Their sophomore effort, “Blue Skies Above,” takes its title from Shannon’s self-penned last verse of the traditional song “The Blackbird”, highlighting the Heatons’ style of merging traditional and original lyrics and melodies. “Harvest Time” pairs early 20th century courtship with modern low whistle and fiddle solos. And for the lovely instrumental, “Belle of the South Shore,” Vermont musician Sam Amidon adds clawhammer banjo strains, fusing traditional Irish and American music worlds. Other guests include percussionist Paddy League, Scottish singer/accordion player Emily Smith, New Zealand fiddler Jamie McClennan, and singer/fiddler Laura Cortese.

Matt and Shannon Heaton are keeping their horizons bright with a sunny collection of music, a growing fanbase, and a touring entourage that fits in a compact car.