Lisbon-based, New York-raised artist M. Vaughan is forging a new sonic path, crafting music that resonates with personal experience while boldly blending his past and present influences. Once a fixture in the world of electronic dance music, Vaughan's recent releases signal a striking shift towards an introspective, indie-infused sound.
M. Vaughan announces his return with 'Tire Swing' the gorgeous lead single from June 14th’s ‘Keep in Touch’ EP. The single offers the first taste of a record that sees the acclaimed (VICE / Resident Advisor / Mixmag) Portugal-via-New York producer moving away from the club and towards the emotional indie rock of his roots with a sound for fans of Mount Kimbie and Blood Orange.
Speaking about his new single, M. Vaughan shared, "I wrote 'Tire Swing' in my first spring in Berlin. I was listening Fishmans and Tom Petty and keeping myself sane by going on long bike rides into the woods. I had rented a tiny studio and learned that German apartments are 100% empty when you move in—no kitchen, no light fixtures, just walls. So as I was writing this song I was making appointments for night visits to IKEA to pick up countertops and shelves. I remember riding the ring-bahn one night mumbling the German word for sink (waschbecken) to myself. There’s a lot of homesickness juice in this song and a sense of waiting for things to suck less.“
Inspired by artists like The Microphones, Mark Kozelek, and Alex G, his creative instincts evolved. The 'Keep in Touch' EP became a catalyst for his transformation. "I began drawing from those early influences and experimenting," reflects Vaughan. A subsequent move to Lisbon in 2023 further solidified his musical shift, spurred by boundary-pushing acts like Mount Kimbie, Tirzah, and Blood Orange.
'Keep in Touch', described by Vaughan as a "full-circle musical coda," reflects this multifaceted journey. It captures a snapshot of an artist embracing change while exposing a vulnerable, aching core. Lead single, 'Tire Swing', was born from a deep sense of disconnection during his time in Berlin. "There was a lot of heartache in that period," Vaughan admits. Nonetheless, the song's soaring vocals, shimmering piano melodies, and driving rhythm offer a glimpse into a newfound creative vitality.
M. Vaughan's artistic evolution is an ode to the beauty of reinvention. His willingness to venture beyond his comfort zone and blend genres makes him a musician to watch as he continues to redefine himself with honesty and heart.
Connect with M. Vaughan,
