Biog

Mano is one of the most authentic and unique songwriters in the country. Revered and cherished by his peers but without sharing their acclaim, he is the UK’s best-kept musical secret.

His songs are timeless and weave bitter-sweet pop and folk melodies with lush harmonies. His idiosyncratic lyrics tell stories, jokes, and poke sticks into wasps’ nests. Mano’s distinctive voice can deliver punches, one-liners and arrows to the heart, with a wry, distinctly northern warmth.

Previously published by BMG, Mano has been writing and releasing records for almost thirty years with bands Robinson, Babel Tree, Meadow, and latterly as a solo artist. His first solo album, the critically acclaimed ‘Peach Got Bones’ saw Mano tour the UK and Europe, including supports for Steve Mason and Guy Garvey’s Meltdown Festival. Mano has also been a featured artist on BBC 6 Music.

Then Lightning is the title track and first release from Mano’s forthcoming second solo album. Using intimate home recordings as a foundation, Mano has been joined by drummer and producer Tim Thomas and bass player Gary Hadfield to add lush harmonies alongside banjo, clarinet, harmonica, omnichord and mellotron. This is an album full of warmth, wit, and humanity, produced with unassuming subtlety and charm.

“One of Britain’s best songwriters”
Guy Garvey (Elbow) in the Guardian Newspaper

“The songs of Mano McLaughlin are the finest being written in the English language 
today. Anywhere. By anyone and anyhow.”
Steve Dowling (Steve Dowling & The Obliviates)

“One of the country’s most underrated songwriters, revered by many of his peers, but without the public acclaim he richly deserves. His set featured new songs from his follow-up to 2013’s Peach Got Bones and demonstrates he’s not lost any of the ability to craft beautifully observed songs that might be personal to him, but can find resonance with anyone, which for us is the greatest thing any songwriter can ever do. He leaves us eagerly anticipating the album.”

Even The Stars