Acquired the nickname, Matt "Bug", when he founded DIY punk-pop band, Ded Bugs, with his best friends, Jeff "Devulheyd" Bergeron and David "D-A-V-E" Midgett in 1989. Ded Bugs were modestly successful releasing five albums, touring globally and winning St. Louis' 2001 SLAMMY Award for "Best Punk Band.".