Members
Select a Self band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Self is an alternative rock project primarily driven by Matt Mahaffey, a multi-talented singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Known for its eclectic blend of power pop, hip-hop, and inventive sampling, Self came to prominence with the release of their debut album, Subliminal Plastic Motives. The band's lineup has included Matt Mahaffey (vocals, various instruments), along with guitarist/vocalist Mike Mahaffey, keyboardist/vocalist Chris James, drummer Jason Rawlings, and bassist/vocalist Mac Burrus. Self is recognized for its genre-defying sound and collaborations with prominent acts such as Garbage and 311.
How to Sound Like Self
The sonic landscape of Self is characterized by a playful yet meticulously crafted sound that blends eclectic sampling and punchy pop hooks. The use of toy instruments on albums like Gizmodgery adds a quirky, lo-fi charm, while the incorporation of vintage keyboards, such as the Fender Rhodes Mark II Seventy-Three, offers a warm, analog depth to their recordings. Mahaffey's production often employs the rich, tape-saturated echoes of the Roland RE-201 Space Echo, creating a lush, reverberant atmosphere. The rhythmic foundation is frequently driven by the iconic beats of the Roland TR-808, combining electronic precision with organic, live instrumentation to craft a sound that is both innovative and nostalgically familiar.
Discography
Get the Self Sound
Want to sound like Self? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
