When we think of the sounds of Columbia SC, Sandstorm playing at Williams-Brice Stadium, train horns and the flow of the river may come to mind. Local band Prettier Than Matt has also been contributing to the sound of our city for over a decade. The duo, Jeff Pitts and Jessica Skinner Sims, enjoy playing shows across their home state from local venues to festivals. Vista Lights tops their list of favorite Columbia SC events.

“Vista Lights is hands down our favorite,” says Pitts. “The crowd is always large and receptive. We love it because we get to change it up and play our favorite Christmas songs and mix them in between our original music and favorite cover tunes. We also just love Christmas.”

Though Pitts is originally from Florence, SC and Jessica from Woodruff, Columbia SC has influenced their music and shows up in their lyrics. 

“Our song, “Anymore” is about Canalside and Cayce Riverwalks,” explains Pitts. “Jess wrote the song about walking at the Canalside Riverwalk with a significant other. When the relationship ended she felt she couldn’t return to that side of the river for fear of bringing back old memories and feelings. So for a while she would take her walks to Cayce.”


We recommend donning headphones and taking a stroll along the river with one of their albums. With their catchy lyrics, it won’t be long before you’re ready to sing along to every word at one of their upcoming shows.