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I'm a drummer with many years of stage and studio experience. An original Virginia gentleman, I've played with various rock/blues rock bands from coast to coast.

BACKGROUND

I have been playing drums and percussion since the age of 7, cutting my teeth in the Baltimore/Washington area. I continued with advanced musical study throughout my academic career as a percussionist in various concert, symphony and marching bands.

I began playing blues and rock and roll in the early 1980's with musicians such as Mike Ellis (The Jubal Early Band), Bruce Krombholz and Mark Pohlen (various bands including Blue Moon, New World, Mother Whip, Krook) opening for such acts as Paul Barrere (Little Feat), Catfish Hodge during the "50 Cities 50 Nights" tour. A couple of tracks recorded in 1986 with Mark Pohlen and Bruce Krombholz (recorded by Barrett Jones at the original Laundry Room Studio in Virginia) are in my playlist (Success and Don't Misunderstand Me).

I was also employed as a fill-in drummer with various local musicians/bands including occasionally backing singer Phil McCormack (The Molly Hatchet Band, The Road Ducks, Jazzbo McMann), Jimbo Manion (Jazzbo McMann), Chris Ivy (The Toasters w/ Mark Everett (EELS)), and recording with the great James Darne (BARK, Cicada, Jimi Sinn).

After a move to Portland, OR in 1996 I was recruited by Lonnie McHill and performed at many PNW venues including Portland's world famous Waterfront Blues Festival. I have also shared stages in Austin, TX with some of the cities premier blues musicians, including Mike Milligan, Leland Parks, Scott Unzicker, Andy Macintyre and Derek Wayne.

I relocated to Phoenix in 2003 and joined forces with 74th St with whom I currently compose, record and perform valley wide. We play many of the top venues and festivals including the Arizona Bike Week Cyclefest with Eddie Money and the Show No Mercy tour with Jimmie Van Zant.

CURRENT

In addition to my steady gig, I am also available as fill-in for classic/southern/hard rock and blues bands. My repertoire consists of thousands of songs spanning a multitude of genres.

I also love being a dad to my two gorgeous daughters, Delaney and Ashlyn. I've got a great gig working from home which allows me more time with my family.

QUOTES

"Matt continues to impress audiences with his clock-like meter and rhythm. He owns the pocket and has a keen sense for knowing when less is more, but can provide the necessary licks when appropriate."
- PNT reporter

"Matt is incredibly fluent and can easily play two parts at once."
- Mark Pohlen

"Man, I wish I could find a drummer like you."
- James Darne

I'd love to have the chance to reunite with old band mates or any of the other amazing musicians I've had the pleasure of working with including Bruce K., Mark P., Jimmy and Mike Darne, David Chase, Jimbo Manion, Phil McCormack, etc. I also enjoy meeting and jamming with new musicians, so much so that I frequent many open blues and rock jams around the valley.