DERRINGER DISCOVERIES

ARTIST: Joe Matera

LOCATION: Melbourne, Australia

FEATURED: Episode 98

ARTIST BIO  

Joe Matera is a premier Italian-Australian guitarist and rock journalist with over 30 years in the music industry. Based in Melbourne, he has enjoyed a decorated career as a solo artist, reaching the Top 5 on the Australian ARIA Jazz and Blues charts with his 2023 album, The Lone Runner. He has also served as a lead guitarist for bands such as Geisha and the UK group The Korgis.

As a journalist and author, Matera has interviewed global icons including Metallica and Queen for publications like Guitar Player and The Guardian. He is a multi-time best-selling author on Amazon, known for his autobiography Backstage Pass and his 2026 definitive history, The Making of ABBA: The Story Behind The Band's Breakthrough 1975 Album. Matera remains one of the most respected voices bridging the gap between music performance and journalism.

FROM DERRINGER DISCOVERIES

If you appreciate "melodic architecture," you are going to love the work of Melbourne’s own Joe Matera. While Joe is a technical master, he avoids the trap of overplaying. Instead, he focuses on soulful, organic tones that make his guitar feel like a lead vocalist. His style is a refreshing throwback to the era of classic rock where every note was chosen for its emotional impact rather than its speed.

Listeners will especially enjoy his 2023 instrumental album, The Lone Runner . This record is a masterclass in atmospheric guitar work, blending vintage 70s warmth with modern precision. It is the perfect soundtrack for a long drive, offering sophisticated grooves that stay in your head long after the track ends. If you are a fan of artists who let their instruments breathe and tell a story, Joe Matera’s music is a must-add to your playlist.