PIG PEN (MATTY MATHESON, WADE MACNEIL) UNVEIL DEBUT SINGLE AND ANNOUNCE MENTAL MADNESS ALBUM
Photo: Patrick Moore
Matty Matheson, the charismatic chef and actor known for his role as Neil Fak on The Bear, has added another title to his eclectic resume: hardcore frontman. His new band, Pig Pen, has just dropped their debut single, “Mental Mentality,” and it’s as raw and unfiltered as the man himself.
Pig Pen isn’t just a celebrity vanity project. The band boasts an impressive lineup of seasoned musicians: Wade MacNeil of Alexisonfire and Gallows on guitar, Daniel Romano (Attack In Black) also on guitar, Ian Romano on drums, and Tommy Major on bass. Together, they form a powerhouse that delivers a relentless sonic assault.
“‘Mental Mentality’ is about mental health shit,” Matheson candidly shared. “You can be having a beautiful day, surrounded by friends, and your brain can continuously ruin it. No matter how good or bad your life is, you can still hate yourself. I've got to ask myself why am I feeling the ways I'm feeling?”
Photo: Patrick Moore
The single is a taste of what’s to come from Pig Pen’s upcoming debut album, Mental Madness, set for release on June 27 via Flatspot Records. The album was written in a single day and recorded the next, capturing the raw energy and urgency that defines the hardcore genre. The tracks were mixed by Arthur Rizk and mastered by Alan Douches, ensuring a polished yet aggressive sound.
The music video for “Mental Mentality” features footage from Pig Pen’s explosive debut performance at Sneaky Dee’s in Toronto, showcasing Matheson’s commanding stage presence and the band’s tight, ferocious delivery.
With Mental Madness on the horizon, Pig Pen is poised to make a significant impact on the hardcore scene. Whether you know Matheson from his culinary exploits or his television roles, his foray into music proves he’s a force to be reckoned with.
Tracklist for Mental Madness:
Rabid Beach
Heat Wave
Pig Pen
Power Love Train
Mental Mentality
Highway
Venom Moon Rising
Problem Mind
Howl & Veil
XJXIXDX
Pre-orders for Mental Madness are available now through Flatspot Records.