Straight out of Newfoundland and into our subconsciousness, songwriter Matt Cooke has donned his MAWZY persona for his latest single “Long Gone Now.” Inspired by themes of missed connections, isolation, and love, Cooke’s musical approach sets itself apart with a special nod to the psychedelic instruments.
“Greg Giesbrecht, producer and engineer, really helped bring this song to life,” says Cooke. “Nick Coultas-Clarke played drums and brought an essential energy and feel for the song.”
“We referenced some bands like Yukon Blonde, Andy Shauf, and The Chainsmokers to find that indie/pop sound that still felt organic.”
“Long Gone Now” has a way of pulling listeners in with Cooke’s wide variety of dream-inducing tools, from the beautifully synthesized keys that make up the chorus to the snappy, exciting percussion awaiting at each verse. MAWZY has undoubtedly carved a name for itself in the dreamy psych-pop genre.
As his instruments do a welcome number on our state of mind, our hearts open to the gentle sorrow surrounding the whole track; nothing really strikes the heartstrings more than love that didn’t work. The melody in the keys, screaming “this is how the world is,” compounds this, and ultimately it’s remarkable how all of the tune’s aspects were able to combine their efforts for such an emotionally-impactful result.
“I think reminiscing on past relationships and experiences is something we all do, for better or worse,” says Cooke. “I hope the listener can connect with the lyrics and be held by the music.”
“This song marks a sort of a sophomore release, so it feels good to be progressing and putting art into the world. I feel it’s a step in a more pop-centric direction, and more considered production.”
“It’s good to be out there, and now I’m ready to focus on making and releasing even more music.”