the willis ordeal

last release

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upcoming release

About the song

"If the heartbreak of communication breakdown in a relationship made a sound, the Lapsteel intro here is what I'd imagine it'd be. This is the most vulnerable I've been as a songwriter, and probably the most proud I've been of a project. We recorded the rhythm section live, without a click, on my friends studio on a boat. I love this approach because it never ends up exactly how I envisioned and, as someone who likes to obsess over arrangements, this stepping back and trusting the musicians and engineer I work with has led to some magical stuff."

Press Gallery

Short

the willis ordeal is a London-based Singer-Songwriter who pulls from his love of Folk, Jazz and Soul music to create an Indie Pop sound that's both nostalgic and new. The name itself is an admiring nod to "The Jimi Hendrix Experience", the music he grew up obsessing over. With a new self-produced EP coming out in February 2027, his next release is the first single "It Never Rains Anymore" - coming 15 October 2026.

Bio

the willis ordeal is London-based Singer-Songwriter Matt, who pulls from his love of Folk, Jazz and Soul music to create an Indie Pop sound that's both nostalgic and new. The name itself is an admiring nod to "The Jimi Hendrix Experience", the music he grew up obsessing over.

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 in February 2027, his next release is the first single "It Never Rains Anymore" - coming 15 October 2026.

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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

GET IN TOUCH

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the willis ordeal

thewillisordeal@gmail.com