MANE’s latest EP is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a testament to her growth, resilience, and unwavering passion for music. Following a triumphant sold-out UK headline tour, this release, titled ‘Caught In The Undertow,’ delves deep into MANE’s personal experiences, reflecting the hard work and mental stamina she poured into her music.
“I’m always a bit nervous around releasing but the feeling of relief outweighs that!” MANE expresses to Eat This Music. “I’ve been sitting on this EP for a while so it’s great to finally release it into the world for others to hear.”
“I think I’ve learnt I have a lot of mental stamina to push forward despite it being somewhat of a difficult time to be a music maker in Australia.” — MANE
“I’ve definitely had many moments of self doubt and wanting to quit music but at the end of the day I’ve always found the passion and belief to forge ahead because I can’t really see myself doing anything else,” MANE continues. “I think when you let go of expectations and try to enjoy the process it’s freeing and creates a bigger opening to create.” As you listen to ‘Caught In The Undertow,’ it becomes clear that MANE has poured her heart and soul into this project. She explains that the EP focuses on the lighter moments between life’s challenges, and this shift in perspective is palpable in the music. The emotional depth of the EP is a reflection of her personal journey, marked by self-discovery and resilience.
MANE’s vocals are a standout feature on ‘Caught In The Undertow.’ Her voice, both powerful and emotive, weaves seamlessly with the musical arrangements. The EP incorporates a rich blend of sonic elements, thanks to the production by Mario Spate and creative direction by Benjamin Tamblyn-Morrow. Together, they’ve created a sonic landscape that is both immersive and emotionally charged. Throughout the EP, you’ll notice subtle audio samples of nature, adding a layer of depth and authenticity to the songs.
“I think it’s up for interpretation really, you can have every intention as the artist behind a body of work but it might mean something completely different to someone else – which is what is really cool about making something,” MANE says about the story of the EP. “Everyone is on their own journey so of course people might find new meanings in your songs, i love that though!”
Speaking on the creative process of the EP, MANE explains that it was produced by Mario Spate and assisted creative direction by Benjamin Tamblyn-Morrow, both people paramount to her process. “Since 2016, the three of us have worked and written together as a trio, and I am incredibly proud to consider them two of my closest friends,” MANE says. One of the EP’s strengths lies in its authenticity. MANE’s approach to songwriting has contributed to the genuineness of the tracks. Her lyrics are raw and honest, offering listeners a window into her world. She has masterfully captured moments of clarity amid hardship, as exemplified in tracks like ‘Caught In The Undertow.’
For first-time listeners, ‘Caught In The Undertow’ and ‘We Run’ are excellent starting points. ‘Caught In The Undertow’ encapsulates the essence of the EP, with its message of finding freedom and detachment from past burdens. It’s a track that resonates deeply and is bound to leave an impression. “There’s a song that has been in my live set since almost the birth of MANE called ‘Fault’,” MANE adds. “It always goes down really well live and we wanted to include it on the EP but it just wasn’t right for this collection of songs. We have begun recording it though so look out for it on the album!”
“Breathing Again and We Run are the two tracks off the EP that I feel represent what it is about the most” — MANE
“Breathing Again” is an important aspect of the EP, as it is “about the moment of clarity amidst hardship where you realise you’re going to be ok. Although the verses are a reflection of trying times the pre chorus and chorus leaps into this sense of freedom and detachment from what once held me back,” MANE adds.
As for what’s next, MANE has a tour across Australia scheduled across October and November 2023, celebrating the release of ‘Caught In The Undertow’, and her live performances promise to be an extension of the emotional journey laid out in the EP, making them a must-see for fans and newcomers alike.
‘Caught In The Undertow’ is MANE at her best: delivered a remarkable piece of work through her vocals, production choices, and lyrical storytelling, inviting listeners to share in her experiences of growth, self-discovery, and the power of resilience.
