the willis ordeal

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Short

the willis ordeal is a London-based Singer-Songwriter who pulls from his love of Jazz, Blues and Soul to create an Indie Folk sound that's nostalgically modern. Following on from his Headline Show in May of 2026, he has a new self-produced EP coming out on 18 Feb 2027. He's just released the first single "It Never Rains Anymore", and is currently gigging this along with the EP and other unreleased material. 

Bio

the willis ordeal is a London-based Singer-Songwriter who pulls from his love of Jazz, Blues and Soul to create an Indie Folk sound that's nostalgically modern. The name is a nod to The Jimi Hendrix Experience, the soundtrack to his teenage years.

As a session guitarist, Matt has experienced both sides of the industry: as an Artist who wants to perform with musicians, and as a musician who needs to pay bills! This led him to start the willis ordeal PRESENTS, a grassroots event where he invites artists to jam their songs live with his three-piece band. There are no rehearsals, he draws up charts and they all meet on the night to play to a room full of music lovers!

As a producer, his love of Guitar and experimental textures can be seen all over. With a new EP coming out on 18 Feb 2027, his lastest release was the first single "It Never Rains Anymore".

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Reviews

"The willis ordeal is an act to which I will definitely be returning. A strong ethos, poignant, understated lyrics, and an effortless classicality make their EP a compelling listen and has me craving more."

"London-based project The Willis Ordeal delivers an inviting and organic charm with their new four-track EP, recorded in a single day on an East London boat. From the soothing, escapist allure of “Calm” to the playful rock energy of “Backseat Driver,” the release succeeds across both brisk, soulful rockers and folk-touched reflections."

Mike Mineo

15 Jan 2026

Graeme Smith

14 Jan 2026

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the willis ordeal

thewillisordeal@gmail.com