Pathos and Humor

Terrible Dream

Poverty Hollow is Chuck Richards on lead vocals and guitar, and Matt Anderson on cello, guitar and backing vocals. Previous to the band forming, Chuck Richards had been pursuing a solo career, with the release of two albums, "Lost in the Sound" and "Still," working with musicians such as anti-folk hero Cindy Lee Berryhill, Christopher Hoffee of Truckee Brothers, Atom Orr, and Steve Poltz, and Matt Lynott, drummer for The White Buffalo. Prior to his solo career, Chuck played in bands with the likes of the legendary Jeff Buckley. He performed his music throughout Los Angeles, San Diego and, more recently, Nevada City, California.

Multi-instrumentalist, Matt Anderson is a classically trained cellist. While growing up in Nevada City, California, Matt played in orchestras, and chamber ensembles, competing in nation wide competitions. During his years in San Luis Obisbo,  Matt recorded the cello with various artists and played guitar, or bass in local bands.

After a few informal sessions, it became obvious that a chemistry existed between the two musicians and the blending of their instruments, acoustic guitar and cello. "Matt adds more than just accompaniment to my songs. His phrasing and inventive style, shapes the music, adding to the composition of the songs," Chuck explained during a recent performance.

The music Chuck Richards and Matt Anderson create, is a fusion of alternative acoustic rock, and gritty Americana; big open chords, slide guitar, soulful melodies with the deep smooth sounds that only a cello can bring.

Chuck has written a collection of songs for the band that are fresh and unique; a style all their own. "This is music that needs to be listened to," says Kelly Fleming, a local Nevada City musician, performer and recording artist. Poverty Hollow is currently beginning work on their debut album, "Pathos and Humor," expected to be released winter 2012/13.