Matt The Electrician

Matt The Electrician

Matt The Electrician is the stage name of Matt Sever, an American singer-songwriter based in Austin, Texas. He is born in San Francisco and spends part of his childhood in Oregon after his family moves there, before moving back to California in the early 1980s. He later relocates to Austin to pursue music and continues to live and work there with his family.

Early influences and musicianship

As a young musician, Sever is obsessed with Woody Guthrie, The Hollies and the soundtrack to Godspell. He starts on trumpet, but later turns to guitar after taking private lessons in California, where he meets the instrument. His family’s financial situation means he learns within the limits of only three guitar chords, which he says still proves enough to develop his style.

Career and recordings

Matt The Electrician builds a steady fan base in Austin and is associated with folk, singer-songwriter, acoustic, indie and alt-country styles. His releases include Baseball Song in 1998, Home in 2000, Made For Working in 2003 and Long Way Home in 2004. One Thing Right is recorded at The Aerie Studios in Austin and co-produced by Jud Newcomb, Mark Addison and Sever.

Style and image

His music is described as combining gritty neo-folk, brisk energy and detailed life experience, with guitar work and liquid vocals forming a central part of the sound. His public image is often presented as unassuming and blue-collar, alongside a strong reputation for musicianship.