Matthew C. Whitaker Shares New Single "Chestnut Tree" From 'Songs For The Weary' (Out 13th Feb) + UK Tour Dates

Manchester-based musician Matthew C. Whitaker returns with “Chestnut Tree”, the second single from his forthcoming album ‘Songs for the Weary’. A miniature song brimming with gentle, jaunty charm and a nostalgic sense of Englishness, “Chestnut Tree” offers a moment of calm reflection, carried by intimate vocals, lilting classical guitar, and warm, understated instrumentation.

Approaching the theme of anxiety about confrontation with warmth and whimsy, the track transforms quiet moments of unease into something wistfully reassuring. Blissful and unhurried, it sits comfortably within the serene emotional world of ‘Songs for the Weary’ — an eight-track album created as a soothing retreat for listeners in need of rest.

Known for his work with boundary-pushing prog-rave outfit HENGE, Whitaker takes a contrasting path here, favouring restraint and subtlety. Co-produced with longtime friend and neighbour Alan Keary (Shunya), the album highlights Whitaker’s quieter side: thoughtful, melodic, and quietly affecting.

Tour Dates

Matthew C. Whitaker (HENGE) with Shunya

• 14/02 – Leeds, Hyde Park Book Club
• 15/02 - The Golden Lion, Todmorden
• 17/02 – Liverpool, Kazimier Stockroom
• 18/02 – Edinburgh, Leith Depot
• 19/02 – Newcastle, Cobalt Studios
• 20/02 – Sheffield, Cafe No9 (SOLD OUT)
• 02/03 – Nottingham, The Grove
• 03/03 – Totnes, Barrelhouse
• 04/03 – Falmouth, Cornish Bank
• 05/03 – Bristol, The Jam Jar
• 07/03 – London, MOTH Club
• 08/03 – Brighton, Folklore Rooms
• 10/03 – Manchester, Band on the Wall

The live show will blend the eight delicate tracks from the new album with highlights from Whitaker’s 2016 debut, ‘The Man with the Anvil Hat’, alongside a solo set by Shunya and reimagined versions of some HENGE songs.