Matty Matheson, renowned for his role in the hit series The Bear, has embarked on an exciting new journey by forming a hardcore band named Pig Pen alongside Wade MacNeil, the talented guitarist from Alexisonfire. Matheson, who is not just an actor but also a celebrated chef and internet personality, portrayed the character Neil Fak in the critically acclaimed Hulu series featuring Jeremy Allen White from Shameless. This new musical endeavor has been a few years in the making, revealing Matheson’s passion for music that runs deep alongside his culinary career.
In a recent Instagram post, Matheson shared the origins of Pig Pen, stating, “A few old friends got together a couple years ago and wrote and recorded 10 songs over two days. We just wanted to hang out and see what’s up. This is our band. We are Pig Pen.” His candid words resonate with fans, emphasizing the collaborative spirit and friendship that fueled this project, showcasing how music can bring people together regardless of their primary careers.
Comments on Matheson’s post reflect enthusiasm from the community, with one follower noting, “A Matty hardcore band was long overdue,” while another humorously remarked, “Man’s just doing side quests now.” The band has generated considerable buzz, and while no official singles or albums have been announced yet, their debut performance is slated for Friday, April 25, at Sneaky Dee’s in Toronto, Canada. Fans eager to catch Pig Pen live can join a waitlist for tickets, as initial sales have already sold out.
Meet the Talented Members of Pig Pen
The official social media accounts of Pig Pen reveal an impressive lineup, with Matheson taking the lead as the vocalist. MacNeil not only contributes guitar work but also provides vocals, creating a dynamic duo at the forefront of the band. Joining them are Daniel Romano on guitar, Ian Ski Romano on drums, and Tommy Major on bass, each bringing their unique flair and expertise to the group. This eclectic mix of talent promises to deliver a powerful sound that hardcore fans will appreciate.
Wade MacNeil, known for his involvement in multiple bands such as Gallows, Black Lungs, and Dooms Children, humorously acknowledged his busy schedule in a recent Instagram post. He quipped, “Just when you thought I couldn’t possibly join another band. We go and start Pig Pen,” highlighting his passion for music and collaboration. The camaraderie among the band members is palpable, and the excitement surrounding their journey is contagious.
Exploring Matty Matheson’s Musical Roots in Hardcore
While some may view this as a new chapter for Matheson, his roots in the hardcore scene run deep. Before rising to fame as a chef, Matheson played in several hardcore bands, including one called Sex Tears, which he reminisced about during an episode of the Mythical Kitchen’s Last Meals series. His passion for music has been a significant part of his life, and he has often reflected on how it shaped him as an individual.
In a heartfelt interview on the Knotfest podcast, Matheson shared that he distanced himself from the music scene in his mid-20s as his culinary career began to flourish. However, the loss of Power Trip’s Riley Gale a few years back compelled him to reconnect with his musical roots. Matheson honored Gale on social media, expressing gratitude for the influential figures he encountered in the hardcore scene, stating, “I would not be the person I am today without going to shows in Buffalo/Erie/Rochester/Syracuse/Albany in the late ’90s/00s.” His heartfelt message underlines the importance of community and shared experiences in shaping one’s identity.
Discover 49 Actors Who Are Also Talented Musicians
Gallery Credit: Chad Childers, Loudwire
