Matthew and the Atlas is an English alternative folk outfit centered around musician Matthew Hegarty, who hails from Aldershot near London. The project initially began as a five-piece band but has since evolved to focus on Matthew Hegarty with supporting musicians. Hegarty also performs with a stripped-back setup during live shows. At the age of 15, Hegarty taught himself to play the guitar and later joined a band playing heavy alternative rock, drawing inspiration from bands like System of a Down and The Smashing Pumpkins.