Remove the dead matter, scratch the ground, seed, protect with straw, and keep moist for 2 weeks.

Agree. I had similar problem, added peat moss last year in error and killed grass. Water, seeding didnt help. This year, added about 1/2 to 3/4 inches of potting soil, sprinkled and raked in general sun&shade type seed, watered every day to keep seed wet. in 1-2 weeks started to see it coming up. Now been 3-4 weeks, almost like a pro golf course. Very little work, no critical procedures. Just daily watering if no rain.