Matt Harvey

Biography

Matt Harvey, born in the early 1970s, emerged as a significant figure in the underground metal scene. He began his musical journey playing guitar in local bands during his teenage years, honing his skills in a variety of genres before gravitating towards heavier sounds. His early exposure to iconic bands like Metallica and Slayer fueled his passion for intense guitar work and aggressive rhythms. By the mid-1990s, Harvey was ready to make his mark on the metal world, contributing to the genre with his unmistakable style and technique. In 1995, Matt Harvey co-founded the band Exhumed, which quickly became a staple in the death metal scene. Their debut album, "Gore Metal," released in 1998, showcased their unique blend of grindcore and death metal, receiving critical acclaim for its raw energy and innovative approach. Over the years, Harvey and Exhumed gained notoriety for their energetic live performances and relentless touring. With albums like "All Guts, No Glory" and "Death Revenge," they solidified their reputation, influencing a new generation of metal musicians and fans alike. Harvey's musical style is characterized by his fast-paced riffs, intricate solos, and a distinctive blend of humor and horror in lyrical themes. He is known for favoring heavy, aggressive guitar tones, often achieved through a combination of high-gain amplifiers and carefully selected guitars. His signature gear includes the 1991 ESP M-II guitar, equipped with EMG 81/60 pickups, which provides the perfect punch for his intense riffs. He utilizes a Mesa/Boogie Triple Rec for its versatility and high gain, while his pedalboard features classics like the Boss DS-1 Distortion and the MXR Carbon Copy Delay. His approach to music and gear reflects his commitment to pushing the boundaries of the genre, constantly exploring new sounds and effects to enhance his performances. Matt Harvey's contributions to the death metal genre have left an indelible mark on the music scene. Through Exhumed and other side projects like the band Gruesome, he continues to inspire and lead the charge for modern metal enthusiasts. Today, Harvey remains active in the music world, balancing touring and recording while nurturing new talent within the community. His legacy endures as a pioneer of the death metal sound, with fans and musicians recognizing him as a true innovator in the genre.