Energy is the first thing that comes to mind when listening to Mangoseed. Laced with a hunger for social justice, the 11-track album dreamers embodies the punk spirit, crossing genres from dub, punk, jungle and reggae. Sonically rich and powerful, echoing roots from Trinidad, Jamaica, Australia and Ireland, each track speaks unapologetic. The result is a globally relevant album with spirit.
Layering multi-instrumentals with punchy vocals and electronic synths, the progressive and ever-changing use of drums makes each track its own story. Fronted by Trinidadian Nicholai La Barrie, the the band has second-generation Jamaican heritage Karlos Coleman on guitars/vocals, Australian/Trinidadian Richard Hardy on bass, and Sam “Irish” Campbell on drums.
Politically themed, Nicholai is no stranger to commentary on injustice. Finding recent success curating For the Culture Celebrations of Blackness, the Lyric Hammersmith theatre’s first festival celebrating black talent.
“Most of our lives are governed by some kind of political decision that we had nothing to do with. It’s really important to say that out loud and ask questions so we feel with and for people and bring them together. There is healing power in music. You can find bliss in everybody jumping, singing, and dancing together.”
Audiences can look forward to receiving the energy of Mangoseed’s upcoming live show at Off The Cuff in London, 26/01/21. You can find Mangoseed via the links below:
Words by Olivia Barnes