Mawzy is the brainchild of songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist Matthew Cooke. Through earnest storytelling, Mawzy lyrics capture the unnavigability of life and romance in his city, Toronto. Laying a sonic and visual foundation with his debut EP Escapism and follow up singles, his use of crafted melodies and lush synthesizers has worked to create the trademark Mawzy sound.
Matthew got his start playing in bands in his hometown of St. John’s, Newfoundland. During this time he fell in love with 70s rock, modern disco, and bands like Tame Impala, ALVVAYS and Mac DeMarco. Since relocating to Toronto in 2012, he boasts an impressive sideman resume with bands like Fast Romantics, Jerry Leger, and Lenny Bull.
Working with producer Thom D’Arcy (Sheepdogs, Whitehorse), Matthew recently put to tape the debut Mawzy LP, Long View. The FACTOR supported album spans from pop-centric and anthemic songwriting on ‘Forever Wild’ and ‘Long View’, to spacious production and introspective lyricism on ‘Regrets & Wonders’ and ‘Where I’m From’. Collaborating with local artists, Matthew materializes the Mawzy vision through a series of album visualizations inspired by beauty in nature and interpersonal connections. Set to release Fall 2023, Mawzy will support the upcoming album with residencies and performances from Toronto to St. John’s.
