Sieben

Sieben is the primary creative vehicle for Sheffield-based musician Matt Howden, a pivotal figure in the European neofolk and neoclassical scenes. Emerging in the late 1990s through Tony Wakeford's Tursa label, Howden carved out a unique niche by eschewing the typical acoustic guitar foundations of neofolk in favor of a violin-centric, loop-based approach.

His sound is defined by 'layering' - a technique where he builds complex rhythmic and melodic structures in real-time using a self-taught violin style that incorporates body percussion and varied bowing techniques. Culturally, Sieben sits at the intersection of apocalyptic folk and avant-garde chamber music, frequently collaborating with genre heavyweights like Sol Invictus and Spiritual Front. Critical consensus highlights Howden's technical mastery and his ability to maintain an organic, human feel despite the repetitive nature of looping. His work often explores themes of mythology, nature, and human psychology through a lens of 'dark' British romanticism. Over a career spanning three decades, Sieben has evolved from the starker neofolk of 'Forbid the Sun's Escape' to the more sophisticated, textured arrangements of his later catalog, maintaining a reputation as one of the most innovative solo performers in the experimental folk underground.