Matt Ballenger is a guitarist, vocalist, pianist, songwriter, and producer though he is best known for his role as lead guitar player and supporting vocalist for the Steve Sizemore Group (SSG). As a Gretsch artist, you’ll most often see a double-cut White Falcon in his hands which certainly contributes to his signature sound. When not on the road with SSG, you’ll find him working as a session musician as well as producing and recording a variety of artists for indie label, MediaBrain Records. In fact, this is how he came to join SSG. Matt was Steve’s producer prior to being asked to take the reigns for departing guitarist, Rodney Isaacs.

Being one of SSG’s core contributors certainly has its perks. Since joining the band, Matt has enjoyed the honor of sharing the stage as an opening act for Don Dokken, Damon Johnson (Alice Cooper, Whiskey Falls, Brother Cane), Pete Best (original Beatles drummer), Les Dudek (Steve Miller Band, Boz Scaggs, Allman Brothers), and Mark Knight (Bang Tango, Worry Beads). SSG’s following is quickly growing as the band’s no-frills rock formula of clever hooks, strong melodies, rich harmonies, and loud guitars has won over audiences at music industry showcases such as International Pop Overthrow and NAMM. And the band shines live. SSG shows are famous for high energy and entertaining dynamics. Beatles fans agree. Steve Sizemore Group has placed its high-octane spin on one of the most important bodies of work in music history as a 7 year veteran and fan favorite at Abbey Road on the River, the world’s largest Beatles-inspired music festival. In 2010, SSG released a live Beatles tribute album, “A Night in the Life.”

Matt’s album credits with SSG include “Beautiful Dust”, “A Night in the Life”, “Songs of Squeeze Revisited”, and “International Pop Overthrow: Volume 12.” You can also enjoy his work on several of his solo singles and session playing contributions.

Matt’s creativity isn’t limited to writing, performing, and producing music. In the spirit of Brian May and Tom Scholz, he extends his innovative vision into the realm of science and engineering. Matt was awarded a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering with a Mathematics Minor by the University of Kentucky (GO CATS!). He is also an accomplished inventor credited with 33 patents by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Those skills have also come in handy in the music world. Matt is a notorious gear tweaker and often modifies his own guitars, amps, and pedals. He also designs tube amps and effects pedals, though none have been made commercially available just yet.

Matt Ballenger and Steve Sizemore have teamed up for SSG’s upcoming release. “Beautiful Dust” had already been written before the pair had met, so SSG’s next album offers a chance to demonstrate the professional chemistry that has propelled the band to new heights. And SSG newcomers Paul Felice and Pat Giacone will help kick it into overdrive. The band is currently in the studio striving for a masterpiece, so watch closely and follow SSG on your favorite social networking sites for updates.