Biography
Matt Bunsen, originally known as Matt Silbert, emerged from the Boston music scene in the 1990s and early 2000s as the bassist for the well-known band Seks Bomba, establishing his foundation in rock and alternative sounds.[4] Relocating to Los Angeles, he transitioned into a singer-songwriter career, forming the Americana band Matt Bunsen & The Burners, where he performs frequently as a bassist on electric and upright, alongside vocals and songwriting.[1][7] His songwriting explores themes of drugs, enlightenment, emotional baggage, and storytelling, often blending humor with introspection, as evident in his 2023 release 'I Am Consumed,' his fourth album.[1][3][6]
Bunsen's musical style spans classic rock, classic funk, traditional jazz, jamband, instrumental rockers, and comedy, with a penchant for righteous 60s covers and songs originally by female vocalists.[1][5] He gigs regularly in and around Los Angeles, both solo and with his band, showcasing versatility across instruments like bass, guitar, and synth.[1][2] Projects like the instrumental odyssey featuring collaborators highlight his compositional range.[2]
Though not yet widely recognized beyond local scenes, Bunsen's persistent output and live performances contribute to a niche legacy in LA's Americana and rock circuits, with 'I Am Consumed' marking a recent milestone in his evolving catalog.[3][6]
Fun Facts
- Matt Bunsen was assigned 'bass player' at birth and gigs on both electric and upright bass around Los Angeles.[1]
- He writes songs about drugs and enlightenment, often in the same song, and enjoys covers from the 60s or originally by female vocalists.[1]
- In his former life as Matt Silbert, he played bass in the Boston band Seks Bomba during the 90s and early 2000s.[4]
- His band repertoire includes clever, humorous songs like 'Beer' and 'We All Gotta Die.'[7]
Musical Connections
Key Collaborators
- Chris Cote - guitar and vocals in instrumental project (Instrumental odyssey) [unspecified]
- Matt Lomeo - harmonica and regular performer with Matt Bunsen & The Burners, vocals (I Am Consumed (2023)) [2023]
- Craig Macintyre - drums in instrumental project (Instrumental odyssey) [unspecified]
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
matt bunsen & the burners has been played 2 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 6, 2026 | 21:12 | life on the road 2.0 | Music of Mass Distractionw/ Black Mold | |
| Dec 26, 2025 | 20:11 | I'm yosemite sam | Music of Mass Distractionw/ Black Mold |