Rising New York-based electro-pop sensation Matty Marz is set to make waves with her debut album, m.w.u, which dropped today. With a sound that seamlessly blends hyperpop, dream-pop, drum and bass, and electronica, Marz delivers a maximalist pop wonderland brimming with sticky melodies and vibrant beats. m.w.u, an acronym for "moment with you," is not only a testament to her musical prowess but also a profound exploration of duality—contrasting light and dark, joy and sorrow, and growth and loss. As she carves her path in the music industry, Marz's dynamic artistry and bold vision promise to leave a lasting impact on both pop culture and the LGBTQ+ community. We had the chance to interview Marz about m.w.u and dive into her journey of self-discovery and the creative process behind this striking debut.
VIBRANT: Listening to the album, it reminds me a lot of SOPHIE, 100 gecs or even a little bit of Uffie. Who would you say has influenced you the most in making m.w.u?
Matty: These are amazing references! I 100% was influenced by these artists when making this project. I think my biggest inspirations were Charli XCX, Ethel Cain, deadmau5, Post Malone, 100 gecs, Britney Spears, and Aphex Twin. You can definitely hear hyperpop, dream-pop, drum and bass, and electronica references all throughout the album.
VIBRANT: Sonically, m.w.u is a maximalist pop wonderland. What drew you to this bold, vibrant sound, and how did your classical music training influence the album’s dynamic arrangements?
Matty: I’m so glad that you picked up on the album’s ethereal nuances! I honestly didn’t even realize I was making an album until I sat down and started listening to this collection of songs. When making this album, I did a lot of exploring, arranging, and experimenting, and then took my time putting together the puzzle pieces. I think the closing track on the album, “Sing Me To Sleep,” really allows my classical background to shine. It’s definitely my most experimental song to date. The song’s peaks and valleys feel very orchestral in tone, even though it’s technically a dance track. I like to describe it as a “dance ballad.”
VIBRANT: Experimentation seems to be a key part of your music. Were there any unexpected directions or surprises during the production of m.w.u that ended up defining the sound of the album?
Matty: Love this question! There were lots of little moments of surprise throughout the creation of the album! One that immediately comes to mind is the drum and bass flip at the end of “Lacazette.” We’d originally created the song for another artist, so when it came time to make it my own, I knew I needed to add my own flair. I wanted to add some electronic magic to it, so I added the really intense drums and vocal chop. I think it actually ended up being one of the coolest parts on the album! I think that kind of energy carries the album as a whole, and it’s an important part of my production signature.
VIBRANT: m.w.u is described as a meditation on duality—light and dark, joy and sorrow. Can you share how these opposites manifest in specific tracks or moments on the album?
Matty: I think the two songs that best highlight the duality of the project are the opener and title track, “m.w.u,” and the closing track, “Sing Me To Sleep.” Both songs blend melancholic production with a high-energy build that crescendos into a euphoric release, creating a powerful contrast between sorrow and exhilaration. Lyrically, “m.w.u” and “Sing Me To Sleep” navigate complex emotions like loss and loneliness. Whereas “m.w.u” grapples with the question of “where/how do I belong in the world?,” “Sing Me to Sleep” reflects on the darker themes of isolation and suicidal thoughts. Both songs ultimately resolve with positive answers about finding self love and living for and in the moment.
VIBRANT: As part of a new generation of young trans women in pop, how does your personal experience as a trans woman shape the duality explored in m.w.u? Is there a specific moment that feels most connected to your journey of self-realization?
Matty: It means the world to me to be a trans girl representing pop music in a new way! The last two and half years making this album, and the last year on HRT (hormone replacement therapy), have been some of the most beautiful and painful moments of my entire life. My purpose in life has made all the more sense since I started my girlhood journey. If you listen carefully, there are so many examples of my bubbling identity all over this album, and some of these songs were created before I even had a clue about the journey I was on and where it would lead me. This album is my ascension into womanhood. Whatever is next will be a masterful project about everything I'm currently going through, and I'm really excited to get started!
VIBRANT: You’ve mentioned that m.w.u encourages listeners to embrace the unknown—how do you personally navigate the unknown in your creative process?
Matty: Navigating the unknown in my creative process is something that’s always evolving. Lately, I’ve been deeply focused on bringing this project to completion, so creating new material has taken a bit of a backseat. Embracing my newfound girlhood has also been all-consuming (in the best ways possible!) and I’ve been trying to embrace the highs and lows. To make impactful work, I believe you need two things: perspective and experience. If you’re not exploring the depths of your own identity, you won’t gain perspective, and if you’re not truly living, you won’t have the experiences that fuel your art. For me, it’s about embracing all of it, even when it’s unknown or uncertain, because that’s where the real inspiration comes from.
VIBRANT: It seems now more than ever that queer artists are taking over the music industry and that is something to celebrate. What do you hope your presence and music contribute to the industry and culture?
Matty: I firmly believe I am going to become a generational artist! I think aside from carving my own iconography into the pillars of pop culture, it excites me to see culture shifting to showcase how impactful queer art is. I think we can look forward to a future full of queer mainstream artists rising to the top. Mark my words, we are next! I’m excited to continue to grow and shape my career into something that is uniquely my own.
VIBRANT: What message do you hope m.w.u sends to young LGBTQ+ listeners who may be on their own journeys of self-discovery?
Matty: Above all else, I want to share the message that it’s okay to change and that’s the purpose of all of this. This album has club bangers, but at its core it’s a record about self-discovery and self-concept. I’m living proof that you can morph into anyone you want to be. There’s a whole world out there waiting to love you for who you truly are.
VIBRANT: How do you envision the evolution of your sound after m.w.u? Are there any new sonic or thematic directions you’re eager to explore next?
Matty: I think whatever I do next will be a slight departure from the sounds explored on m.w.u. Everything I do is heavily concept driven and I’m excited to continue showcasing my vocal range and sharpening my pen game. What I do know is that the best is yet to come!
VIBRANT: Now that you’re releasing your debut album, what goals or dreams do you have for the next chapter of your career?
Matty: My big focus right now is to continue growing and connecting with my fanbase. I’d love to eventually tour as well! After that? Madison Square Garden and world domination ;) <3
Listen to m.w.u. streaming everywhere now.